Attalid

Attalid refers to the dynasty that ruled the kingdom of Pergamon in western Asia Minor during the Hellenistic period, and to things associated with that house. The Attalids developed Pergamon into a major political and cultural center from the late 3rd century BCE until the early 2nd century BCE.

The dynasty began with Attalus I Soter, who in 241 BCE established himself as king of Pergamon after consolidating power in the region. Under the Attalids, Pergamon expanded its territory and influence, becoming a significant regional power. The line continued through several notable rulers, including Eumenes II, who reigned from about 197 to 159 BCE and oversaw extensive building and cultural patronage, and Attalus II Philadelphus (159–138 BCE), who founded the royal library at Pergamon, a major scholarly center rivaling Alexandria. The last ruler, Attalus III, reigned until 133 BCE; on his death, he bequeathed Pergamon to Rome, and the kingdom became the Roman province of Asia.

Cultural and artistic impact was a defining feature of the Attalids. Pergamon became renowned for monumental architecture, sculpture, and learning. The Pergamon Altar, the city’s institutions, and its flourishing library symbolize the period’s investment in art and scholarship. The Attalids also minted coinage and fostered administrative and military initiatives to secure their realm.

Legacy: With the Roman incorporation of Pergamon, the Attalid state ended, but its cultural and architectural achievements influenced later Hellenistic and Roman art and scholarship. The term “Attalid” remains used to describe artifacts, inscriptions, and institutions linked to Pergamon.