Bergama is 180 mi/290 km southwest of Istanbul. Bergama is the site of the ancient city called Pergamon. The place merits a visit because of its impressive ruins. The ruins include the acropolis with its Altar of Zeus, palaces, gymnasiums, temples, the world's steepest amphitheater, the Aesculapium (ancient medical center) and a now-empty library (it once held 200,000 volumes). Note the familiar symbol of medicine on the base of the Serpent Altar; Pergamon was the home of early medical theoretician Galen, whose teachings held sway for 1,500 years. Unfortunately, now the most spectacular treasures from Pergamon can't be seen there—they're at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, Germany. Allow a few hours to tour the ruins.