Kızılavlu (Serapion) Archaeological Site

Kızılavlu is a large-scale structure located outside the Acropolis in the city of Bergama. It was a sacred area dedicated to Egyptian deities, particularly Serapis, identified with Zeus. The tripartite form of the building indicates that other gods such as Isis and Harpocrates were also venerated alongside Serapis. Although the exact patron who commissioned the temple is unknown, it is generally accepted that it was constructed during the second century CE, under the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian (117–138).

Kızılavlu (Türkiye Culture Portal

Architectural Features

Kızılavlu features a forecourt measuring approximately 260 by 110 metres. The temple follows a basilical plan with three naves and an apse. The entire structure was built using red brick. The bricks measure 35 by 40 centimetres and are 6 centimetres thick. Symmetrical circular towers and colonnaded courtyards flank both sides of the building. The forecourt is situated atop water tunnels constructed over the Selinus River.

In front of the temple, along its central axis, stands a propylon (gateway) and a large temple entrance. The doorway was surrounded by marble slabs and originally featured bronze-clad large doors. The sacred inner chamber of the temple was illuminated only by windows on the front side, while the rear remained semi-dark.

Kızılavlu (Anadolu Agency)

Religious Function and Use

The temple was dedicated to the cult of the Egyptian god Serapis and hosted religious ceremonies in which water held significant symbolic importance. Inside the temple, pools fed by hot and cold water pipes are believed to have been used for ritual purification. On two high pedestals at the rear, a colossal cult statue, likely 10 to 12 metres in height, once stood. Beneath this statue, a cistern and hidden passages provided access for priests during rituals.

Byzantine Period and Beyond

During the early Byzantine period, architectural additions were made to the temple, and it was converted into a basilica-style church. At this time, the structure was regarded as one of the seven earliest churches in Anatolia. The circular tower-like structure on the northern side was used as a mosque during the Ottoman period and continues to serve today as the Kurtuluş Camii.