Pergamum: Altar to Zeus

The story of Telphos, son of Heracles and founder of Pergamum, appear on panels in the inner court of the altar complex. Several panels are shown here. Recounting the adventures of Telephos and the founding of the city's cult of Athena helped to give the people of Pergamum a sense of identity.

Making a boat for Telephos's
mother, who is set adrift at sea

King of Mysia finds
Telephos's mother
stranded on the shore

Telephos's mother establishes
the cult of Athena at Pergamum
to thank Athena for saving her

Telephos's mother gives
him weapons for battle