Side Ancient City – Manavgat, Antalya
Side was the most important port city of the Pamphylia region. Its name means "Pomegranate" in the local language, symbolizing abundance. Built on a peninsula, the city was a center of science, culture, and trade in ancient times, but was also infamous for slave trade and piracy. Today, it appears as a unique open-air museum where modern settlements and ancient ruins are intertwined.
History It is thought to have been founded by immigrants from Western Anatolia in the 7th century BC. It opened its gates to Alexander the Great without a fight. In the 2nd century BC, it became a base for pirates, later experiencing great prosperity under Roman rule.
Key Structures
- Temples of Apollo and Athena: Located at the very tip of the peninsula, overlooking the sea. The restored columns of the Temple of Apollo, in particular, have become the symbol of Side and Antalya. It offers a magnificent view at sunset.
- Ancient Theatre: With a capacity of 17,000, it is the largest theatre in the region. Unlike other Anatolian theatres, it is not built against a hillside; it is an example of Roman architecture built on vaulted arches. It was used for gladiator fights and water games.
- Vespasian Monument and City Gate: The monumental gate and fountain located at the main entrance of the city.
- Side Museum: Created by restoring an ancient Roman bath, it is one of Turkey's most impressive small museums.
- Commercial Agora: The large square next to the theatre, believed to be where slave trade took place.
Sources
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism
- Side Excavation Directorate
- Wikipedia – Side
- Vikipedi – Side, Antalya