We arrive at the small port of Dikili from where we will visit ancient Pergamum, one of the most important cities of Western Asia. It began life as a small fortress, but expanded greatly in the years that followed the death of Alexander the Great, when it became the capital of a wealthy kingdom. Its spectacular acropolis stands on the summit of a high steep-sided hill, visible from many miles away. The ruins include a temple of Trajan, two theaters, a library, an amphitheater, and an asclepeion, or shrine to the god of medicine. Pergamum's most famous physician was Galen (A.D. 131-201), whose work remained influential for many.