Pergamum remained a prosperous and important city for many centuries. Its wealth, culture, and religious importance continued well into the early medieval period. However, this long period of prosperity came to an end during the Arab raids and conquests of the seventh and early eighth centuries. The city suffered serious damage in the attacks of 663 and again in 716.
After these events, Pergamum was never able to recover its former importance. The great buildings of the acropolis were no longer repaired or maintained. Instead, the high ground was reused as a Byzantine military stronghold. Fortifications were added, and older structures were adapted for defense rather than for worship or civic life. Over time, even this military role declined, and Pergamum slowly fell into obscurity. Much of the once-glorious city was forgotten until modern archaeological work brought it back to light Daily Sofia Tour.
The Letter to the Church in Pergamum
In the Book of Revelation, Saint John addresses a letter to the Christian community of Pergamum. He begins with the words: “To the angel of the church in Pergamum, write this.” In early Christian language, the “angel” represents the spiritual guardian or leader of the church.
Jesus is introduced as “the one with the sharp two-edged sword.” This image is powerful and symbolic. The sword represents divine judgment, truth, and authority. A two-edged sword cuts both ways, showing that Christ’s word judges both enemies and believers.
“Where Satan’s Throne Is”
John tells the Christians that he knows they live “where Satan’s throne is.” This phrase has been widely discussed by scholars. It may refer to Pergamum’s strong pagan traditions, its many temples, or its importance as a center of the Roman imperial cult. Pergamum was one of the earliest cities to worship Roman emperors as gods, which directly conflicted with Christian belief.
Despite living in such an environment, the Christians of Pergamum are praised for holding fast to their faith. They did not deny Christ, even during the time of Antipas, a believer described as a “faithful witness” who was martyred in the city. His death shows that persecution was real and personal Pergamum under Eumenes II.
Warnings and Criticism
After praise comes criticism. John says that some members of the church follow the teaching of Balaam. This refers to a story from the Old Testament, where Balaam encouraged moral compromise and idol worship. In the Christian context, it means accepting pagan practices, such as eating food sacrificed to idols and taking part in immoral rituals.
John also mentions the Nicolaitans, a group believed to promote similar compromise. He strongly urges the church to repent. If they do not, Christ warns that he will come and judge them with the “sword of his mouth,” meaning his divine word.
Promise to the Faithful
The letter ends with a message of hope. Those who overcome will receive “hidden manna,” a symbol of spiritual nourishment and eternal life. They will also receive a white stone or amulet with a new name written on it. This name is known only to the one who receives it and represents a personal relationship with God and a new identity.
Sacred Space on the Acropolis
An important archaeological object connected to Pergamum is the base that once supported a statue of Athena in her sanctuary on the acropolis. Later, this same base was reused for a statue of Emperor Augustus. This reuse clearly shows how sacred spaces shifted from Greek gods to Roman emperors. It also helps explain why Pergamum was seen by Christians as a place of great spiritual conflict.
