The sanctuary of Asklepios (asclepieion), the great god of healing, although it underwent constant renovation, is as seen today largely in the from given it in the time of the emperor Hadrian (117—138 CE). Entered by a gateway at the end of the Roman bazaar (Via Tecta, a processional road) street coming from the city the courtyard of the sanctuary (measuring approx. 110x130 meters) was bounded on three sides by stoas and contained the old temple of Asklepios plus two smaller temples; sleeping rooms for the patients, fountains, and sacred pools.

To the north-west was a 3500-seat Roman theater and at the north-east corner a library which served also for the cult of the emporer. On the east side of the courtyard was the new temple of Asklepios constructed in imitation of the round Pantheon in ancient Rome; to the south-east corner was attached a barrel-shaped treatment centerg linked to the pools in the center of the courtyard by a tunnel; and, lastly, on the south-west comer was a lavish lavatory establishment.

circa 400 BCE-

The asclepieion of ancient Pergamon was dedicated to Asclepius, god of healing in Greco-Roman mythology. It was first founded, according to the legend, by the middle of the fourth century BCE. In Roman times it was one of the most important healing centers in the ancient world, along with ancient Epidaurus.

The sanctuary was established on a ridge in a fertile valley at the foot of the Geyikli mountain, outside the city. Around the ridge were natural springs, which were said to have healing powers. According to myth the sanctuary was founded by Arkhias, a citizen of Pergamon, who was said to be the first Prytan of the city. He had injured his foot while hunting in Greece and was healed in Epidauros, the most famous asclepieion in ancient Greece at the time. Out of gratitude to the god he established the cult of Asclepios in his hometown of Pergamon.

Finds from the excavations date back to prehistoric times and the cult may predate the fourth century BCE. The sanctuary that we see today was mainly built under the rule of the Roman emperor Hadrian (117-138 CE). During the Roman era Pergamon gained a high reputation due to the healing methods and famous doctors like Galen at the Asclepieion.

circa 120 CE

Circular Treatment Building
The Circular Treatment Building in the Asclepieion of Pergamon, a prominent Roman-era structure dating to the 2nd century CE, served as a core component of the ancient healing center. Located in the southeast corner of the complex, this two-story rotunda is sometimes referred to as the Temple of Telesphorus, the god of convalescence. Its unique design, featuring a circular plan with six perimeter apses on the ground floor, facilitated a therapeutic and processional experience for patients.

This architectural layout complemented the healing activities, which were based on a holistic approach blending physical and psychological treatments. A key feature of the building's function was its connection to a 70-meter-long subterranean vaulted passage, or cryptoporticus. This tunnel, which linked the treatment area to the sacred pools at the center of the sanctuary courtyard, was used by patients to receive treatments while also enhancing a mystical, meditative atmosphere through the sound of dripping water. The building, which lacked a dome and featured a wooden roof, was a testament to the sanctuary's advanced medical practices, which included hydrotherapy, massage, and psychological suggestion.

circa 120 CE

Temple of Zeus-Asclepios
The "Circular temple of Zeus" within the Asclepieion of Pergamon, more accurately identified as the Temple of Zeus-Asclepius (or Asclepius Soter), was a monumental Roman-era structure dating to the mid-second century CE. Located south of the sanctuary's monumental gateway (propylon), the domed, cylindrical temple was funded by the Roman consul Lucius Cuspius Pactumeius Rufinus and constructed as a smaller-scale replica of the Pantheon in ancient Rome. This design, with its nearly 24-meter-diameter brick dome, was an exceptional architectural feat for the Roman world at the time. The interior was distinguished by seven alternating rectangular and semicircular niches, which likely housed statues, including a large sculpture of the healing deity Zeus Asclepius that once stood opposite the entrance. Although little remains of the temple today, its sophisticated construction and resemblance to a major Roman precedent underscore the prestige and Romanization of the Pergamene Asclepieion under emperor Hadrian.

circa 120 CE

Theater
The Roman-era theatre at the Asclepieion of Pergamon, built under emperor Hadrian in the second century CE, served a therapeutic function by hosting musical and dramatic performances for patients. Unlike the city's larger Hellenistic theatre on the Acropolis, this smaller venue, which could seat around 3,500 people, was integrated directly into the sanctuary, with the northern stoa providing access. The theatrical events were seen as an integral part of the holistic healing process, which included psychotherapy, dream incubation, and baths.

The semicircular cavea (seating area) was built into the natural slope of a hill and made from local stone, while the orchestra was paved with luxurious polychrome marble. The elaborate, three-story scaenae frons (stage building), now mostly lost, featured multiple doorways and statues, and a special box (bisellium) was reserved for dignitaries and priests. The strategic placement of the theatre within the healing complex underscores the ancient belief that psychological and spiritual well-being were crucial for physical recovery.