The Altar Of Zeus At Pergamon

The Pergamon Altar, a monumental construction built in the 2nd century BCE in the ancient city of Pergamon (modern-day Bergama, Turkey), stands as one of the most significant examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. More than just a religious structure, the altar was a potent symbol of Pergamon's power, wealth, and cultural achievements. Its intricate sculptures, grand design, and historical significance continue to captivate scholars and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the world of the Hellenistic period. This article will delve into the history, construction, artistry, symbolism, and legacy of the Altar of Zeus at Pergamon, exploring its profound impact on art, architecture, and our understanding of the ancient world.

The Historical Context of Pergamon

To fully appreciate the significance of the Pergamon Altar, it's essential to understand the historical context in which it was built. Pergamon was a thriving city in Mysia, a region in northwestern Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). Originally a minor settlement, Pergamon rose to prominence during the Hellenistic period, particularly under the rule of the Attalid dynasty.

The Attalids, who ruled from 281 to 133 BCE, transformed Pergamon into a major cultural and political center. They were ambitious rulers who sought to emulate the grandeur of the Hellenistic kingdoms that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great. The Attalids were also keen patrons of the arts and sciences, establishing a renowned library that rivaled the Library of Alexandria.

The reign of Eumenes II (197-159 BCE) marked the zenith of Pergamon's power and influence. It was during his rule that the Pergamon Altar was commissioned, likely to commemorate the Attalid victory over the Galatians, a Celtic tribe that had invaded Asia Minor. The altar served as a powerful statement of Pergamon's military prowess and its role as a protector of Hellenic civilization against barbarian threats.

Construction and Design

The Pergamon Altar was not merely a place of worship; it was an elaborate architectural and sculptural masterpiece. The altar was constructed on a raised platform on the acropolis of Pergamon, offering commanding views of the surrounding landscape. Its design was a synthesis of Greek architectural styles, incorporating elements of both Ionic and Doric orders.

• Dimensions: The altar was massive in scale, measuring approximately 35.64 meters (117 feet) wide and 33.4 meters (110 feet) deep. The surrounding platform was even larger, enhancing the altar's visual impact.
• Materials: The altar was primarily constructed from white marble, sourced from the quarries of Proconnesos in the Sea of Marmara. This high-quality marble contributed to the altar's brilliant appearance and allowed for intricate sculptural details.
• Layout: The altar consisted of a large U-shaped structure with a monumental staircase leading up to the platform. The exterior walls of the altar were adorned with a frieze of high-relief sculptures depicting the Gigantomachy, the mythical battle between the Olympian gods and the Giants.
• Inner Courtyard: The inner courtyard of the altar contained a smaller altar where sacrifices were likely performed. This area was decorated with a separate frieze known as the Telephus Frieze, which depicted the legendary history of Pergamon and its founder, Telephus.

The Gigantomachy Frieze: A Triumph of Hellenistic Sculpture

The Gigantomachy frieze is the most famous and visually striking element of the Pergamon Altar. This monumental sculpture, which ran along the exterior walls of the altar, depicted the epic battle between the Olympian gods and the Giants. The frieze is renowned for its dramatic composition, dynamic figures, and exquisite craftsmanship.

• Themes and Symbolism: The Gigantomachy was a popular theme in Greek art, often used to symbolize the triumph of order over chaos and civilization over barbarism. In the context of the Pergamon Altar, the Gigantomachy likely represented the Attalid victory over the Galatians and Pergamon's role as a defender of Greek culture.
• Artistic Style: The sculptures of the Gigantomachy frieze are characterized by their intense emotional expression, dynamic poses, and anatomical realism. The artists employed a technique known as Hellenistic baroque, which emphasized dramatic movement and emotional intensity.
• Notable Figures: The frieze features a wide array of gods and Giants, each depicted with distinctive attributes and expressions. Some of the most notable figures include:
  • Zeus: The king of the gods, shown wielding his thunderbolts against the Giants.
  • Athena: The goddess of wisdom and warfare, depicted battling the Giant Alcyoneus.
  • Gaia: The earth goddess, shown pleading for mercy for her monstrous offspring, the Giants.
  • The Giants: Depicted as fearsome and powerful adversaries, with serpentine legs and wild expressions.

The Telephus Frieze: A Local Narrative

In contrast to the epic scope of the Gigantomachy frieze, the Telephus frieze focused on the local history and mythology of Pergamon. This frieze, which decorated the inner courtyard of the altar, told the story of Telephus, the legendary founder of Pergamon and son of Heracles.

• Themes and Symbolism: The Telephus frieze served to legitimize the Attalid dynasty by connecting them to a heroic and mythical past. The story of Telephus emphasized the Attalids' connection to the land of Pergamon and their role as its rightful rulers.
• Artistic Style: The sculptures of the Telephus frieze are more restrained and narrative in style compared to the dramatic Gigantomachy frieze. The artists focused on conveying the story of Telephus through a series of scenes depicting his birth, childhood, adventures, and eventual founding of Pergamon.
• Notable Scenes: The Telephus frieze includes a variety of scenes from the life of Telephus, such as:
  • The Exposure of Telephus: Depicts the infant Telephus being abandoned on Mount Parthenius.
  • Telephus Suckled by a Lioness: Shows the infant Telephus being nursed by a lioness, highlighting his heroic nature.
  • Telephus Wounded by Achilles: Depicts Telephus being wounded by Achilles during a battle.
  • Telephus Cured by Achilles: Shows Telephus being healed by Achilles, who possessed the power to both wound and heal.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The Pergamon Altar was laden with symbolism and meaning, reflecting the political, religious, and cultural values of the Attalid dynasty and the city of Pergamon. The altar served as a powerful statement of Pergamon's identity and its place in the Hellenistic world.

• Religious Significance: The altar was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods, and other Olympian deities. It served as a place of worship and sacrifice, where the people of Pergamon could honor the gods and seek their favor.
• Political Propaganda: The altar also served as a form of political propaganda, promoting the Attalid dynasty and their accomplishments. The Gigantomachy frieze celebrated the Attalids' military victories and their role as defenders of Greek civilization. The Telephus frieze legitimized their rule by connecting them to a heroic and mythical past.
• Cultural Identity: The altar reinforced Pergamon's cultural identity as a Greek city and a center of Hellenistic art and learning. The sculptures, architecture, and overall design of the altar reflected the city's commitment to Greek artistic traditions and its aspiration to rival other major cultural centers, such as Athens and Alexandria.

Rediscovery and Reconstruction

The Pergamon Altar remained in Pergamon for centuries, but eventually fell into disuse and was gradually buried under debris. In the late 19th century, the German engineer Carl Humann began excavating the site of Pergamon, hoping to uncover its ancient treasures.

• Excavation: Humann's excavations, which began in 1878, revealed the remains of the Pergamon Altar, including the monumental friezes and architectural fragments. The discovery was a sensation, and the German government quickly obtained permission to transport the altar to Berlin for reconstruction.
• Reconstruction: The reconstruction of the Pergamon Altar in Berlin was a monumental undertaking that took decades to complete. The surviving fragments were carefully pieced together, and missing sections were filled in with new materials. The reconstructed altar was eventually installed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, where it remains one of the museum's most popular attractions.

The Pergamon Museum and the Altar Today

The Pergamon Museum in Berlin is home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including the Pergamon Altar, the Ishtar Gate of Babylon, and the Collection of Classical Antiquities. The museum attracts millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its impressive displays of ancient art and architecture.

• The Altar's Display: The Pergamon Altar is displayed in a specially constructed hall that replicates the original setting of the altar on the acropolis of Pergamon. Visitors can walk around the altar and admire the intricate sculptures of the Gigantomachy and Telephus friezes.
• Controversies: The Pergamon Altar has been the subject of some controversy, particularly regarding its removal from Turkey and its display in Berlin. Some argue that the altar should be returned to its original location in Pergamon, while others maintain that it is best preserved and displayed in the Pergamon Museum.
• Ongoing Research: The Pergamon Altar continues to be the subject of scholarly research and debate. New discoveries and interpretations are constantly emerging, shedding new light on the history, meaning, and significance of this remarkable monument.

Legacy and Influence

The Pergamon Altar has had a profound and lasting impact on art, architecture, and our understanding of the ancient world. Its innovative design, dramatic sculptures, and symbolic significance have inspired artists, architects, and scholars for centuries.

• Artistic Influence: The sculptures of the Pergamon Altar, particularly the Gigantomachy frieze, have been highly influential in the history of art. Their dynamic poses, emotional intensity, and anatomical realism have inspired artists from the Renaissance to the present day.
• Architectural Influence: The design of the Pergamon Altar has also influenced architects and designers. Its monumental scale, grand staircase, and synthesis of Greek architectural styles have been emulated in numerous buildings and monuments throughout history.
• Scholarly Significance: The Pergamon Altar has provided valuable insights into the history, culture, and religion of the Hellenistic period. Its sculptures and inscriptions have helped scholars reconstruct the history of Pergamon and understand the political and cultural dynamics of the Hellenistic world.

Conclusion

The Altar of Zeus at Pergamon stands as a testament to the artistic, architectural, and cultural achievements of the Hellenistic period. Its intricate sculptures, grand design, and profound symbolism continue to captivate and inspire. From its historical context in the ambitious kingdom of Pergamon to its rediscovery and reconstruction in the Pergamon Museum, the altar's journey reflects its enduring significance.

The Gigantomachy and Telephus friezes offer invaluable insights into the religious beliefs, political ideologies, and artistic sensibilities of the ancient world. The altar's legacy extends far beyond its physical presence, influencing artists, architects, and scholars for centuries. As we continue to study and appreciate this remarkable monument, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich and complex history of the ancient world.

The Altar of Zeus at Pergamon invites us to reflect on the power of art to communicate profound ideas, the ambition of ancient rulers to immortalize their achievements, and the enduring legacy of Greek civilization. Its story is a reminder of the importance of preserving and studying our cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can learn from the past and appreciate the beauty and wisdom of the ancient world. How do you think such historical structures can continue to inspire modern art and architecture? What responsibilities do museums have in preserving and presenting cultural artifacts like the Pergamon Altar?