Ancient Asclepion Site in İzmir
The Asclepion archaeological site in the Bergama district of İzmir, known for its historical significance as a treatment center in ancient Greece, continues to uphold its legacy of promoting health by organizing various health-related events.
Historical Importance
Bergama, listed as a Multilayered Cultural Landscape Area on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014, attracts numerous visitors, both local and international, with its remnants from various historical periods such as Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
Legacy of Healing
Established in the 4th century B.C. to honor the god Asclepius, the Asclepion archaeological site remains a symbol of historical grandeur. It served as the training ground for Galen, a prominent Roman physician known as the "Father of Pharmacy," and was the world's first psychiatric hospital offering psychotherapy treatments.
Diverse Treatments Offered
Besides conventional therapies, the Asclepion center provided treatments like water and mud baths, massages, herbal remedies, music therapy, ceremonies, sleeping quarters, and innovative therapies involving water and bird sounds. Recent years have witnessed a surge in visitors exploring these ancient healing practices.
Visitor Influx
Nilgün Ustura, the director of Bergama Museum, revealed that Asclepion ranks as the second most visited historical site in Bergama, following the Acropolis. With Bergama's UNESCO recognition, visitor numbers have steadily risen, with an expected increase to over 450,000 this year.
Continued Relevance
Ustura emphasized that Asclepion's primary mission persists through the ages, hosting psychotherapy events for 47 years. Academic research, health-focused university panels, and a range of activities highlight the enduring commitment to health promotion at the site, fostering a tradition of returning visitors.
