Pergamon Museum in Berlin

The Pergamon Museum in Berlin is one of the world's most important archaeological museums, located on the famous Museum Island. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, when the first building dedicated to ancient finds from Pergamon, Priene, and Magnesia was erected between 1897 and 1899. In 1901, the museum was ceremonially opened by Emperor Wilhelm II. Due to the growing collection, an ambitious reconstruction was carried out between 1908 and 1930, creating an impressive complex capable of housing monumental artifacts such as the Great Altar of Zeus and the Ishtar Gate from Babylon. During World War II, the building was severely damaged, and some exhibits were lost or taken away, including the famous Priam's Treasure, which remains in Russia to this day. The museum's collections are currently divided into three departments: the Collection of Classical Antiquities, the Museum of the Ancient Near East, and the Museum of Islamic Art. Among the most precious exhibits are the aforementioned Altar of Zeus with its frieze depicting the Gigantomachy, the Ishtar Gate, the facade of the Mshatta Palace, and the Aleppo Room. Visiting the entire collection takes about two hours. Unfortunately, due to renovation, the museum remains closed at least until spring 2027, so it is advisable to check current information before planning a visit.