The Wonders of the Pergamon Altar: A Glimpse into Pagan History
Greetings, fellow pagans and mythology enthusiasts, to our beloved community, The Pagan Club!
Join us today as we embark on an exciting journey. We will uncover the mysteries of one of the most impressive ancient structures, the Pergamon Altar.
What is the Pergamon Altar?
This remarkable monument is in modern-day Turkey. Indeed, it reveals much about the pagan world and the myths that shaped our understanding of the universe. So, without further ado, let us dive into the fascinating world of the Pergamon Altar!
**Image is free to share courtesy of Wikimedia
The Grand Design of the Altar of Pergamon
Around 180 BCE, the people of Pergamon built the Pergamon Altar, or Great Altar of Pergamon. This was during the Hellenistic period in the ancient Greek city of Pergamon, now Bergama in Turkey. The architects of Pergamon designed this magnificent structure, dedicated to the Greek god Zeus, to inspire awe and reverence among its visitors.
The altar stood atop a grand staircase. It measured 35.64 metres wide and 33.4 metres deep. This formed a distinctive U-shaped platform. Furthermore, a colossal sculptural frieze and elegant Ionic columns surrounded the platform. The frieze also depicted the battle between the gods and the giants, known as the Gigantomachy.
The Gigantomachy Frieze of the Pergamon Altar: A Visual Feast of Mythology
The Gigantomachy: A Battle for the Pergamon Altar
The frieze, wrapping around all four sides of the altar, is an astonishing 120 metres long and approximately 2.3 metres high. In addition, this intricate masterpiece portrays the epic battle between the Olympian gods and the Giants, who sought to overthrow the divine order. Moreover, the sculptors meticulously carved each figure, with a sense of motion and emotion that breathes life into the stone.
Exploring the Gigantomachy Frieze: Key Scenes of the Pergamon Altar
The frieze begins on the east side, with the gods gathered around the throne of Zeus, preparing for battle. Then, on the south side, the central scene shows Zeus hurling a thunderbolt at the Giant, Enceladus. Meanwhile, Athena grapples with the Giant Alcyoneus.
The west side shows the gods tending to their wounded comrades. In contrast, the north side illustrates the Giants’ gruesome demise. They are either swallowed by the earth or cast into the sea. Beyond the awe-inspiring Gigantomachy, a smaller, inner frieze tells the story of Telephus. He was the mythical founder of Pergamon. This further connects the altar to the city’s history and legends.
The Pergamon Museum: Preserving History for Generations
From Pergamon to Berlin
Today, the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, Germany, houses the Pergamon Altar and attracts millions of visitors each year. Prior to this, the German engineer Carl Humann discovered the altar in the late 19th century. Following this discovery, German engineers and museum staff painstakingly dismantled, transported, and reconstructed it in the museum.
Experiencing the Grandeur Today
This allows us to marvel at its grandeur and appreciate the artistry of the ancient world. In addition, this incredible feat of preservation allows us to witness firsthand the pinnacle of Hellenistic sculptural art and understand the rich pagan heritage.
A Testament to Pagan Heritage and Art
The Pergamon Altar is both an architectural marvel and a testament to the rich pagan heritage. This heritage continues to inspire and captivate us. The depiction of the battle between the gods and giants in the Gigantomachy is rich with symbolism.
It’s often interpreted as the triumph of divine order over chaos. This monumental artwork served as a religious monument. It was also likely a powerful symbol of the Attalid dynasty’s power and their adherence to Hellenic ideals. The sculptures and friezes offer a unique glimpse into the myths and legends. These shaped the ancient world’s understanding of the divine and the cosmos.
**Image is free to share courtesy of Wikimedia
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of the Altar
In conclusion, the Pergamon Altar is a must-visit destination for anyone intrigued by paganism and mythology. It stands as a symbol of the enduring power of these ancient narratives. It also reminds us of the interconnectedness of all things, both human and divine. We hope you enjoyed this journey into the heart of the Pergamon Altar. Indeed, we look forward to exploring more wonders of the pagan world together in The Pagan Club!
Happy exploring, and may the gods be ever in your favour!
Yours, Jade, and The Pagan Club Team.
