The Asclepieion of Pergamon sanctuary was accessible from the city of Pergamon through the Via Tecta, a covered and vaulted “sacred road” nearly one kilometer long. It began at the southern wing of Pergamon’s Roman theater, at the great arched “Viran Kapı” or “Ruined Gate.” Pilgrims passed through this gate to be examined by Asklepiad priest-physicians. Those deemed too ill to recover or pregnant women were denied entry, for “Death may not enter the Asklepion, the holy place of all gods.” as the ancient inscription above the gate warned.
The Via Tecta shielded patients from wind and rain, guiding them to the Propylon, the sanctuary’s monumental entrance. During Hadrian’s reign, the final section of the sacred way was transformed into a colonnaded street lined with stalls selling objects associated with healing. On the southern side stood a monumental tomb, likely of a local hero, dating to the Augustan period.
- Photos by Efe Erhan Küsmez (August 2025)
- Locate the item on this Google Map
Sources
– On-site information panels and museum information displays at the archeological site and Archeological Museum of Bergama.