Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Bergama!

Pergamon (Pergamum)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Pergamon

Embark on a captivating journey through ancient history in Pergamon, an illustrious city that thrived during the Hellenistic period. Pergamon is renowned for its rich archaeological treasures and wheelchair-accessible paths that make exploring this time-honored city an enjoyable excursion for everyone.

Getting There

Pergamon is perched on a hilltop near the modern town of Bergama in Turkey. The closest major city with an airport is Izmir, approximately 100 km away. From Izmir, you can rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle or take a specially equipped bus to Bergama. Upon arrival, head to the Pergamon Acropolis via the accessible cable car that offers both a convenient ride and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Tour Itinerary

1. Pergamon Acropolis:

Start your tour at the Acropolis, which is equipped with smooth pathways suitable for wheelchairs. Marvel at the spectacular ruins, including the famous Trajan Temple and the impressively reconstructed Theatre of Pergamon, which once held an audience of 10,000 spectators. Take a moment at the top to enjoy panoramic views of the ancient city and beyond.

2. Asklepieion:

A short drive from the Acropolis, the Asklepieion is an ancient healing center dedicated to the god Asclepius. This site is notably accessible, offering a glimpse into ancient medical practices. The Sacred Way, a path connecting the Acropolis and the Asklepieion, is mostly level and smooth, making it easy to navigate.

3. Archaeological Museum of Bergama:

Conclude your tour at this museum, which is fully accessible and houses many artifacts from Pergamon. Not to miss are the friezes from the Altar of Zeus and intriguing inscriptions that illuminate ancient life.

Interesting Fact

Pergamon was once a major cultural hub, home to the second largest library in the ancient world after Alexandria, reflecting its profound historical significance.

This wheelchair-friendly tour not only offers a journey through extraordinary ruins but also ensures comfort and accessibility, making it a delightful adventure for all history enthusiasts.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Agora Open Air Museum (Izmir Agora)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey through the ancient ruins of the Izmir Agora Open Air Museum, a wheelchair-friendly destination that promises an immersive peek into the grandeur of Roman and Byzantine civilizations, nestled in the heart of Izmir, Turkey.

Getting There

The museum is conveniently accessible via public transport or car. If you"re using public transportation, the closest metro stop is Konak, which is equipped with elevators and ramps. From Konak, the Agora is just a short, wheelchair-friendly stroll away. For those driving, designated parking for disabled visitors is available near the entrance.

Your Tour Itinerary

Begin your adventure at the main entrance, where smooth pathways lead you into this historical marvel. As you enter, you"ll be greeted by the impressive Corinthian columns that stand tall, telling tales of ancient times.

Highlights of the Visit

1. The West Portico: Marvel at the intricately carved columns and arches. The area is flat and easily navigable, offering up-close views of historical architectural elements.

2. The Faustina Gate: Don"t miss this monumental gate named after the wife of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Its accessibility allows for a closer inspection of the inscriptions and ancient craftsmanship.

3. The North Basilica: Explore the remains of this once-vibrant public space. The pathway around the basilica is well-paved, making it easy for wheelchair users to explore.

4. The East Portico and the Agora Street: Journey along the main street of the Agora, flanked by the remains of shops and public buildings, which showcases the Agora"s role as a bustling marketplace.

Interesting Facts

- The Izmir Agora, built during the reign of Alexander the Great, was reconstructed after a devastating earthquake in 178 AD.

- The site includes an advanced drainage system, showcasing early engineering prowess.

Throughout your visit, informative signs in English and Turkish provide insights into the historical significance of each structure, making your experience not only accessible but also educational. Enjoy your journey through time at the Izmir Agora Open Air Museum, where history"s layers are unveiled before your eyes.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Sardis (Sart)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair Accessible Tour of Sardis (Sart), Turkey

Getting There

Set off on an ancient adventure to Sardis, once capital of the Lydian Empire and a pivotal city in history. Sardis is accessible from Izmir via a scenic 1-hour drive on a pre-booked accessible vehicle that ensures comfort throughout your journey.

Start Your Tour at the Archaeological Site

Upon arrival, begin at the Sardis Archaeological Site. The parking area is well-paved, and there are ramps leading up to the site, ensuring smooth access for wheelchairs and scooters. Here, you can explore the majestic ruins of the Temple of Artemis. With its columns dramatically standing since the 3rd century BC, the area around the temple is compacted earth and generally flat, offering good maneuverability for wheelchair users.

Interesting Fact: Sardis was the city where coinage was invented!

Visit the Roman Gymnasium

Next, roll over to the Roman Gymnasium, accessible by pathways made to accommodate visitors on wheels. This impressive complex showcases the grandeur of Roman architecture and urban planning. Interpretative panels in English provide fascinating insights into the daily lives of ancient Sardians.

Explore the Synagogue

Don’t miss the Sardis Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues ever discovered, dating back to the 3rd century AD. Access to the synagogue is via a smooth path, and the interior is accessible, featuring stunning mosaics which are visible from an accessible viewing platform.

Lunch and Relax

For lunch, dine at a nearby restaurant that boasts wheelchair-friendly facilities. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine that offers a taste of local flavors and culture.

End Your Tour at the Pactolus River

Cap off your day with a soothing visit to the banks of the Pactolus River, where wheelchair-friendly paths allow you to enjoy the serene landscapes once believed to carry gold dust in its streams.

Return

Return to your starting point with a heart full of memories, having traversed through time in the magnificent city of Sardis, all from the comfort of your wheelchair or scooter.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Izmir Clock Tower (Izmir Saat Kulesi)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey through Izmir, a city that gracefully combines history with modern convenience, making it a delightful destination for visitors on wheelchairs or mobility scooters. One of the city"s crown jewels is the Izmir Clock Tower (Izmir Saat Kulesi), a stunning landmark that is not only a visual treat but also accessible.

### Morning:

Start your day at the Izmir Clock Tower, located in the heart of Konak Square. This historical gem, built in 1901 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamid II"s accession to the throne, stands at 25 meters. The area around Konak Square is well-paved and flat, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate. Marvel at the tower"s elegant Ottoman architecture and the beautiful fountains that surround it—perfect for a serene morning.

### Getting There:

The easiest way to reach Konak Square is by using Izmir’s highly accessible public transportation system. The tram and metro networks are equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring a smooth ride from anywhere in the city. Alight at the Konak stop which is directly adjacent to the square.

### Noon:

After soaking in the architectural beauty, head to the nearby Kemeraltı Market for some local shopping and lunch. This historical market offers wide aisles and has been adapted with ramps in many sections. Enjoy traditional Turkish foods like gözleme (a savory traditional Turkish flatbread) and ayran (a refreshing yogurt drink) at one of the accessible eateries.

### Afternoon:

Conclude your visit by exploring the Izmir Museum of History and Art, just a short tram ride away. The museum is fully accessible, offering ramps and elevators between floors. Dive into the rich tapestry of Izmir’s past and get inspired by the artistic heritage showcased in the museum.

This wheelchair-friendly itinerary ensures you experience the vibrant culture and historical treasures of Izmir comfortably and conveniently, making your visit both memorable and enjoyable.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Bergama Asklepion (Pergamon Asclepeion)

Why Visit?

Discover the Ancient Healing Center: Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Bergama Asklepion

Embark on an inspiring journey back in time with a visit to the Bergama Asklepion, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. Nestled in the historic town of Bergama, this archaeological wonder promises a seamless and enriching experience for wheelchair users and mobility scooter travelers.

Getting There

Bergama is accessible via Izmir, which has a well-connected airport and bus services. From Izmir, you can take a train or a local bus to Bergama. The site is just a short taxi ride from Bergama town center. Taxis in the area can be arranged to accommodate mobility aids.

Tour Itinerary

Begin your visit at the entrance, where you"ll find wheelchair-friendly paths leading into the site. As you roll through the ancient archways, imagine the thousands who came seeking cures in the 4th century BC.

Your first major stop is the Sacred Way, a path historically taken by the sick. The path is mostly flat and smooth, making it accessible for wheels. Along the way, marvel at the architectural splendor and serene atmosphere that once hosted Galen, one of antiquity’s most renowned physicians.

Next, explore the well-preserved Theatre, where patients once listened to music as a form of therapy. The theater offers a special section where wheelchairs and scooters can be comfortably positioned to enjoy the same views as ancient spectators.

Don’t miss the Temple of Asclepius, where you’ll find fascinating artifacts and inscriptions. While the temple’s interior is not accessible, its external magnificence is a captivating sight from the surrounding pathways.

Interesting Facts

- The Asklepion was not only a center of healing but also one of the first known psychiatric hospitals.

- The symbol of the serpent, associated with Asclepius, is believed to be the origin of the modern symbol for medicine.

Finish your tour at the onsite museum, which is accessible and offers intriguing exhibits on ancient medical instruments and treatments. Here, delve deeper into the history that shaped modern medicine, all from the comfort of your mobility aid.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.