CMG

Hidden within Berlin, the CMG quietly preserves a legacy of ancient medicine. The Corpus Medicorum Graecorum, or CMG, isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to the enduring influence of Galen of Pergamum. This Roman physician, advisor to Emperor Marcus Aurelius, shaped medical understanding for centuries. His writings, bridging natural sciences and humanities, became the bedrock of medical knowledge from antiquity through the Middle Ages. The CMG, under the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities, meticulously curates Galen’s works. They publish critical editions of Greek and Latin medical texts, complete with translations and in-depth analyses. This dedication ensures Galen’s contributions remain accessible and relevant to modern scholarship. The CMG also oversees the Corpus Medicorum Latinorum (CML), expanding its scope to Latin medical texts. These meticulously researched editions often include commentaries, providing valuable context and insights. Beyond the CMG and CML, a “Supplementum Orientale” delves into Galen’s influence across cultures. It explores translations of his work in Arabic, Syriac, and Latin, highlighting the global reach of his medical theories. The CMG’s significance extends beyond its publications. It holds a vast collection of films and photocopies of ancient medical manuscripts. These resources, available to researchers worldwide, provide invaluable tools for studying the history of medicine. The CMG stands as a vital hub for research, preserving ancient knowledge and fostering ongoing scholarship. It continues the legacy of Galen, connecting the medical practices of the past with the inquiries of the present.