Podium frieze (east) from the Great Altar at Pergamon

Elisabeth Rohde. Pergamon, Burgberg und Altar fig.11. Sequence and interpretation by O. Puchstein and C. Robert

This frieze is the largest and most elaborate element of the monument, and was the first part to be made. It shows the fight between gods and Giants. About three-quarters of the frieze survives, and the correct order of most of this can be ascertained. There were about 100 figures in total - all named - and various animals. The gods' names appeared above the frieze, the Giants' below. The composition is complex, with figures in high relief twisting and turning, conveying the intensity of the struggle between primative Giants and civilised gods.

More about the Great Altar | west podium frieze | north podium frieze | interior frieze