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November 1, Dikili Turkey


       Today we are in Dikili.  Anchored at 10am after a smooth sailing from Istanbul. 

       Our excursion to Pergamum, Asclepion, and the Archaelogical Museum began at

       1.30 after we tendered to the port. 

Dikili is a picturesque coastal town that is a popular tourist spot during the summer months. Along with its natural scenic beauty, the area also offers up some interesting historical locations as well. Among these are the ruins found in nearby Pergamum. This fascinating site was settled by one civilization after another since ancient times; however, it wasn't until around 300 AD, that Pergamum's golden age began with the invention of parchment in the city.

We travelled from the port to the Asclepion of Pergamum, named after Asclepion, the god of health. Drove through the fertile plains that surround the Selinus River and travelled along a sacred road that is lined with monuments and architectural fragments from antiquity. The Asclepion added to Pergamum's reputation as a center of learning and science and contained a rehabilitation center, an Ionic portico, sacred spring, latrines, and something called a psychotherapy tunnel.

Next stop was the Pergamum courtyard, which houses a large temple dedicated to the ancient Egyptian god Asclepius in the 2nd century AD. Built using red, flat bricks, the massive red structure was at one time believed to be the house of the Devil; however, with the rise of Christianity, it was later converted into a church and dedicated to St. Paul. It is uncertain, but suggested that one of the towers of the temple was once used as a synagogue by the Jews.

Last stop was at the Archaeological Museum of Pergamum, a small museum but most interesting with a huge collection of artifacts from 200 BC and later. 

A good day with quite a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, also many steps which are tricky as none have handrails.  

We’ve caught up with some friends from Melbourne - Helen & Lynton Rose!  Gill & Anne JR will remember them from Fintona days. 

Just back now from dinner.  A nice couple from the US joined us and it turns out she lived in Australia for 12-13 years a while back, in 4-5 states including North Balwyn in Victoria!  

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