Aesculepium, the great healing center in Pergamon was one of the most respected ancient hospitals of the ancient world. It rivalled with the hospital in Epidauros.

Galen, who is considered greatest physician after Hypocrates was born in Pergamon and worked in Pergamon. After his studies, he was first appointed as a surgeon to a school of gladiators where he gained valuable experience. Then, he was invited to Rome and became the phycisian of emperor Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus.