The partial re-erection of the Temple of Trajan at Pergamon in Turkey: A German Archaeological Institute project

Abstract

The re-erected Temple of Trajan, one of the most prominent monumental structures visible today at Pergamon, is based on the principles of anastylosis. The first task of the team, working under the auspices of the German Archaeological Institute, was the complete documentation of all existing architectural elements. When the preserved fragments yielded sufficient information, these pieces were joined together and restored to their original position in the Trajaneum. If necessary, missing parts of the temple were added using an artificial stone formed from a mixture of crushed marble and white cement, a material that is clearly distinguishable from the original natural stone. This re-erection preserves the integrity of the temple, while simultaneously enabling the visitor to imagine the original splendour of this monumental building.