Built during the 3rd century BCE in the period of the Pergamon Kingdom, the Pergamon Gymnasion Complex is an important structure that reflects the educational and athletic practices of the ancient world. Skillfully designed to take advantage of the terrain’s natural slope, this complex consists of upper, middle, and lower terraces arranged stepwise from bottom to top. The upper terrace was designated for adults, the middle for youths, and the lower for children. This way, individuals of all ages and social groups could benefit from the complex.
Each terrace stands out with its unique architectural features and functions. The upper terrace, the most extensive and most impressive section of the Pergamon Gymnasion Complex, is located at the center of the complex. It features a spacious courtyard surrounded by columns on all sides. Adults used this courtyard for educational and athletic activities. Additionally, public events such as ceremonies and festivals open to the general population’s participation were held here.
The middle terrace was designed for youths. This long, rectangular area is narrower than the other terraces. It included covered running tracks, open-air exercise spaces, and a large indoor hall suitable for winter training. The lower terrace, allocated for children, was arranged as a more straightformward and modest area. This architectural arrangement reflects a structural organization tailored to each age group’s educational and athletic needs.
Although the Pergamon Gymnasion was initially constructed for educational and athletic purposes, it gradually accumulated the characteristics of a multifunctional public structure over time. The complex was expanded during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan (98–117 CE), , and new sections were added. In particular, the addition of enclosed hammams in line with Roman cultural practices during this period introduced a new dimension to the multifunctionality of the complex.
Excavations initiated by German archaeologists who visited the region in the late 19th century, particularly the second phase of excavations led by W. Dörpfeld, H. Hepding, and P. Schazmann between 1900 and 1913, played a critical role in uncovering the architectural structure and societal functions of the Gymnasion. These findings have provided valuable insights into the educational and athletic practices as well as the social structure of ancient Pergamon, deepening our understanding of the historical significance of the Gymnasion.