History of Bergama

Known in antiquity as Pergamon, the city of Bergama was one of the most important centers of culture and science in Western Anatolia. Founded in the 2nd century BCE, the Library of Pergamon was considered the second largest library of the ancient world. It was here that parchment paper was invented as an alternative to papyrus, marking a revolutionary advancement in the history of writing. Made from animal skin, parchment was more durable and could be written on both sides—ushering in a new era of knowledge preservation.

Bergama made an indelible mark not only in science and art but also in the evolution of writing, offering an invaluable legacy to human history. Today, parchment continues to be remembered as a symbol of Bergama’s enduring contribution to civilization.