Europium-activated $Ga_2$$O_3$ phosphor powders were prepared by Pechini method from the mixed aqueous solutions of gallium(III) nitrate, europium(III) nitrate, ethylene glycol and citric acid. The phase formation process and particle shape of the powders obtained were investigated by means of TG/DTA, XRD and SEM. It was found that the powders were amorphous or ${gamma}$-$Ga_2$$O_3$-like phase up to $500^{circ}C$ and then transformed into $eta$- $Ga_2$$O_3$ phase above $600 ^{circ}C$. The powders calcined below $1000^{circ}C$ were spherical and nanometer-sized. Photoluminescence spectra measured at room temperature showed that the highest luminescence intensity was obtained for the sample synthesized under the conditions of 2 mol% Eu concentration and heat treatment at $1000^{circ}C$.