<aside> <img src="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/49de0235-e8bc-4eca-bf20-2a9d6d267a02/9f515a94-ae94-4782-8d3d-ccfb98891a6f/IMAGE_2024-02-23_213606.jpg" alt="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/49de0235-e8bc-4eca-bf20-2a9d6d267a02/9f515a94-ae94-4782-8d3d-ccfb98891a6f/IMAGE_2024-02-23_213606.jpg" width="40px" /> At the heart of the world-famous Pergamonmuseum is the Pergamon Altar. It was built during the reign of King Eumenes II (197–156 B.C.E.) in the city Pergamon which today is a part of Turkey. The partial reconstructions of the 2000-year-old building is one of the best-known monuments of Hellenistic art.

Short Visit: Pergamon Altar - Google Arts & Culture

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Reconstruction of the Altar of Zeus in Berlin

Background

The Altar of Zeus, also known as the Pergamon Altar, was originally built in the 2nd century BC in the ancient city of Pergamon, which is now modern-day Turkey. It was dedicated to Zeus and Athena, in commemoration of the victory of the Pergamon King Eumenes II over the Galatians. The altar is renowned for its 113-meter long frieze, which depicts the Gigantomachy, or the battle between the gods and the giants.

Discovery and Excavation

The ruins of the altar were discovered by the German engineer Carl Humann in 1878. Excavations were carried out with the permission of the Ottoman Empire, and the frieze was carefully disassembled and transported to Berlin. This process took several years and was completed in 1886.

Reconstruction in Berlin

The reconstruction of the altar in Berlin was a significant project that took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The frieze was meticulously pieced together and restored, and a new museum, the Pergamon Museum, was built on the Museum Island in Berlin to house the altar. The museum opened in 1930, and the reconstructed altar has since become one of its most popular exhibits.

Significance of the Reconstruction

The reconstruction of the Altar of Zeus in Berlin has been significant in several ways. It has provided valuable insights into Hellenistic art and religion, and has allowed for the preservation and study of the altar's frieze. However, it has also been the subject of controversy, particularly in recent years, with some arguing that the altar should be returned to Turkey.

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