In a significant move to bolster the cultural heritage of the ancient city of Pergamon, Turkey has earmarked a budget of 1 billion Turkish Liras ($32.2 million) to enhance its national and international prominence, announced Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy.
The initiative builds upon the foundation laid by the “Heritage to the Future Pergamon” project, initiated in 2019. Ersoy highlighted the project’s substantial progress, citing significant contributions from excavations conducted at 133 sites by the end of 2023, with an additional 144 excavations completed within the past year.
Ersoy underscored the government’s commitment to accelerating archaeological efforts, aiming to condense six decades of work in Turkish archaeology into a mere four years. The objective is to expedite the excavation and preservation of cultural assets, particularly ancient cities, to unveil their historical significance at the earliest opportunity.
Pergamon stands as a quintessential example of Hellenistic urban planning, boasting monumental architecture that epitomizes the era’s grandeur. Ersoy highlighted iconic structures such as the Temple of Athena, theater, library, temples of Zeus and Dionysus, agora, and gymnasium as prime exemplars of the period’s architectural prowess.
Recognizing the tourism potential inherent in Pergamon’s cultural heritage, Ersoy outlined plans to enhance accessibility to key attractions, such as the Pergamon Amphitheater, a symbol of Roman architectural ingenuity. A conservation and landscaping project will be implemented to facilitate tourism in the area.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, a separate budget has been allocated for the repair, exhibition, and arrangement of the Pergamon Archaeological Museum, with plans for immediate commencement of work.
Ersoy emphasized the importance of enhancing visitor experience through the renewal of information and guidance signs, ensuring comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the ancient structures.
With a steadfast focus on project implementation, Ersoy reiterated the government’s commitment to realizing Pergamon’s rightful place in the national and international cultural tourism arena. The substantial budget allocation underscores Turkey’s dedication to preserving and showcasing its rich historical heritage globally.
