Side Ancient CityPlaces to Visit in Antalya

Side is a charming coastal resort located along the Mediterranean Sea, approximately halfway between Antalya and Alanya. It boasts numerous well-preserved ancient ruins, attracting visitors fascinated by Hellenistic and Roman heritage. The site of the old Roman baths now functions as a museum, showcasing an impressive array of historical artifacts.

The city of Side was founded in the 7th century BCE by Greek colonists originating from Kyme, a region in northwestern Anatolia. Athena was the city’s patron goddess, and her likeness appeared on the local coinage. Although the population began as Greek, over time they integrated with the native culture, eventually losing their original language and traditions. The dialect found in inscriptions dating to the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE remains puzzling to researchers, but the name "Side" is believed to mean pomegranate in the local tongue.

Due to its strategic position and natural harbor, Side rapidly emerged as one of the key settlements in Pamphylia. Although the city was under the rule of Lydia and subsequently Persia for several centuries, details about this period remain scarce.

In 333 BCE, Alexander the Great easily captured Side and left behind a small military garrison before launching his renowned campaign eastward. This event introduced the inhabitants to Hellenistic influences. After Alexander’s death, control of Side passed to the Ptolemies, who governed from the 2nd century BCE until the Seleucids took over around 160 BCE. During this time, Side retained considerable independence and functioned as a cultural center for the entire Pamphylia region. Between 188 and 67 BCE, Side operated as a self-governing city and produced its own coinage, often depicting the goddess Nike holding a laurel wreath.

To combat the rising threats of piracy and slave trading from Cilicia, Pompey defeated the pirate forces of Side under the command of Publius Servilius Vatia Isauricus in 78 BCE. Around 25 BCE, Emperor Augustus carried out administrative reforms that integrated Pamphylia into the Roman province of Galatia. Side’s population expanded to about 60,000, and the city enjoyed prosperity until the 3rd century CE.

Side’s merchant fleet sometimes engaged in piracy when profitable, while at other times acting as peaceful traders. Wealthy merchants invested heavily in the city’s development and adornment. They sponsored the construction of public buildings, organized gladiatorial games, and held contests with prizes to entertain both citizens and themselves. Most of the ancient structures preserved in Side today date back to this prosperous era.

In the 4th century CE, Side faced a downturn as its once-imposing city walls failed to stop invasions by local tribes originating from the Taurus Mountains. The city saw a brief revival during the 5th and 6th centuries CE when it served as the episcopal center for Eastern Pamphylia, but in the 7th century CE, it was attacked and set aflame by an Arab naval fleet.

By the 10th century, Side's population had dwindled significantly, and by the 12th century, the city was completely deserted. The legacy of Side’s former glory faded, and the ruins became known locally as "Old Antalya."

Throughout the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, the site remained uninhabited. It was not until 1895 that Turkish refugees from Crete settled there, gradually renaming the area Kestel (later known as Selimiye).

Side is an essential destination for enthusiasts of ancient history. The city boasts a wealth of artifacts from its era as a vibrant commercial hub. Among the most impressive landmarks are the Roman theatre and the remains of three temples dedicated to Apollo, Athena, and Men, situated in a scenic area near the coastline by the harbor. The Roman Bath near the agora now functions as the Archaeological Museum of Side, showcasing an extensive collection of intriguing statues and sarcophagi.

In addition to the Byzantine hospital ruins and the splendid nymphaeum, visitors can explore the Vespasian Monument, a grand gateway accompanied by a fountain.

We strongly suggest dedicating a full day to wander through the ancient ruins of Side, which date back over 2,000 years. You will have the opportunity to see relics such as a ruined library and a basilica from the Byzantine period. With additional time, you can visit two more bath complexes and the Temple of Dionysus located near the theatre.