Allianoi Ancient Spa City Allianoi is an ancient thermal settlement primarily featuring structures from the Roman Empire era, dating back to the 2nd century A.D. It is situated near Bergama (historically known as Pergamon) in the Izmir Province. Throughout the Roman Imperial Period, particularly during the 2nd century AD when grand urban developments emerged across Anatolia and iconic landmarks such as the Asklepion of Pergamon were constructed, many of Allianoi’s significant architectural remains were established. In addition to thermal baths, the site featured bridges, paved roads, residential blocks, and various public buildings such as a Connection Building, Propylons, and a Nymphaeum. During the Byzantine period, Allianoi remained heavily inhabited, even as the urban settlement experienced some socio-economic decline. Many architectural features from the Roman Period were repurposed by the Byzantine population to construct newer homes. Key structures like the thermal baths and the nymphaeum continued to be actively used. A prominent church resembling a basilica was erected in the eastern part of the site, and several chapels were established throughout Allianoi. Workshops for metal, ceramics, and glass production also operated during this era. In the Ottoman Period, the site became known as the Thermal Baths of the Pasha. However, its use appears to have been minimal, with only a handful of coins found during archaeological surveys. In the early 1900s, a regional sub-governor initiated restoration efforts to revive the spa facilities. Furthermore, from the Ottoman era until as late as 1979—when the area was officially restricted by Turkish government regulations—locals accessed the site using a bridge to the west of the ancient city of Allianoi. In the early 20th century, part of the bath complex was cleared of the silt that had built up over time. Although frequent flooding remained an issue, the hot spring section continued to be used into the 1950s. In 1992, the still-functional Roman Bridge underwent reconstruction, but the renovation introduced alterations that ignored conservation principles, drawing criticism from preservationists. In 1994, the Turkish State Hydraulic Works proposed a project to dam the Ilya River in order to create a reservoir aimed at enhancing agricultural efficiency. However, this initiative posed a serious threat to Allianoi, as it meant the ancient site would be submerged under water. Despite numerous protests and strong public opposition, efforts to halt the project were unsuccessful, and the authorities continued with their original plan. If you have any questions or would like more information about Allianoi Ancient Spa City, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply reach out to us via WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.