Side

Side (pronounced 'See-deh') is a captivating town on Turkey's southern Mediterranean coast, a place where the remnants of a powerful ancient city blend seamlessly with a modern resort atmosphere. Positioned on a small peninsula, Side offers a singular experience, inviting visitors to wander through thousands of years of human endeavor while enjoying the warm Mediterranean Sea. Its name, meaning 'pomegranate' in the ancient Anatolian Luwian language, hints at a past of fertility and abundance. Today, Side is celebrated for its well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins, sandy beaches, and a relaxed ambiance that draws travelers from around the globe.

The town's layout is particularly engaging, with ancient structures integrated into the bustling streets. You might find yourself strolling past Roman columns on your way to a café, or discovering fragments of history around every corner. The pedestrianized old town center encourages leisurely exploration, making it easy to absorb the historical significance alongside contemporary life. Side's appeal lies in this harmonious coexistence of past and present, offering both cultural immersion and seaside relaxation.

From Ancient Port to Roman Powerhouse

Side's origins trace back to the 7th century BCE, when Greek settlers from Cyme in Aeolis established the city. Its natural harbor and strategic location quickly made it an important trading center in the Pamphylian region. Early inscriptions found at the site reveal the use of an indigenous language, indicating a unique cultural blend rather than a complete Greek assimilation.

In 333 BCE, Alexander the Great peacefully occupied Side, introducing Hellenistic culture which flourished for centuries. Following Alexander's death, Side came under the control of Ptolemy I Soter and later the Seleucid Empire. The 1st century BCE marked a period where Side gained notoriety as a major pirate port and a center for the slave trade. However, Roman intervention, notably by Publius Servilius Vatia Isauricus in 78 BCE and Pompey in 67 BCE, brought an end to the pirate dominance, effectively incorporating Side into the Roman Empire.

Under Roman rule, Side experienced a golden age, becoming a significant commercial hub in Asia Minor, particularly through its olive oil trade. The city's population swelled to an estimated 60,000, and wealthy merchants funded public works, monuments, and entertainment like gladiator fights. Most of the impressive ruins visible today, including the grand theater and the temples, date from this prosperous Roman era. The city's decline began in the late 4th century CE, exacerbated by Arab raids and other conflicts, leading to its eventual abandonment by the 10th century.

Side remained largely deserted until 1895, when Turkish refugees from Crete settled among the ancient ruins, establishing the village of Selimiye. These early settlers, unfortunately, used the ancient stones as building materials for their new homes. In the late 20th century, Side underwent a transformation, developing into the popular resort town it is today, with ongoing archaeological efforts continuing to uncover its layered past.

Side is an open-air museum, with ancient wonders interwoven with daily life. The Temple of Apollo, located at the tip of the peninsula by the harbor, is arguably the most iconic sight, especially captivating at sunset when its columns are bathed in golden light. Nearby, you'll find the ruins of the Temple of Athena and a Byzantine basilica.

The Ancient Roman Theatre is a colossal structure that once seated up to 15,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and public events. Just beyond the theater stands Vespasian's Gate, a monumental Roman archway that served as a main entrance to the ancient city. Explore the remains of the Colonnaded Street, once lined with the establishments of wealthy merchants, and the Agora, the ancient city's commercial and cultural heart, which includes the remnants of the Temple of Tyche. The Side Museum, housed within a restored Roman bath complex, showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts from the site. For a unique experience, consider a scuba diving trip to the Underwater Museum, featuring 110 sculptures inspired by Anatolian heritage.

Beyond the ancient city, Side offers beautiful sandy beaches like East Beach and West Beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Day trips to the nearby Manavgat Waterfall and Köprülü Canyon provide opportunities to experience Turkey's natural beauty.

The best time to visit Side is during the shoulder seasons of May and October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 28°C, making it comfortable for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities with fewer crowds. Rainfall is low, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming. While June to September offers peak summer heat, ideal for beachgoers with temperatures reaching 34°C, it's also the busiest and hottest period. For those seeking a quieter escape and more affordable accommodation, the off-season from November to April provides cooler weather and fewer tourists, though some attractions may have reduced hours.

Side is located on Turkey's southern Mediterranean coast, approximately 60-75 kilometers from Antalya Airport. The most convenient way to reach Side from the airport is by private transfer, taking about 60-70 minutes. Regular dolmuş (minibus) services are also available from Antalya's main bus station, with a journey time of around 75 minutes. Once in Side, the ancient town center is entirely pedestrianized, so plan to explore on foot. Taxis are available at the town entrance for trips further afield, and horse-drawn carriages offer a traditional way to navigate the lanes.

Side offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly pensions to all-inclusive resorts. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months. The local currency is the Turkish Lira. You'll find numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine, alongside international options. Shopping opportunities abound, from modern stores to traditional markets where you can find souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local products; haggling is common in markets.