HeyAntalya

Side Ancient City

Nestled on Antalya's unique Side peninsula, where the blue waters of the Mediterranean meet verdant landscapes, Side Ancient City is a rare blend of historical and natural beauty. Named after the 'pomegranate', symbolising abundance and fertility, Side has hosted various civilisations for millennia, with its roots tracing back to the 7th century BC. This remarkable site, with its monumental structures bearing the hallmarks of Greco-Roman periods, narrow stone streets, and the iconic Temple of Apollo standing majestically by the sea, is quite simply a living open-air museum. Stepping into Side feels like taking a journey through time itself. ### The Heart of a Once-Thriving Port City In antiquity, Side was one of Pamphylia's most crucial port cities, a bustling hub of trade connecting East and West. The magnificent main gate and city walls, which greet you upon arrival, stand as testament to the city's former grandeur. The ancient theatre, with a capacity of approximately 15,000, hosted not only plays but also gladiatorial contests and political gatherings. Imagine yourself among the ancient crowds, listening to the echoes of the past as you sit within its weathered tiers. Further into the city, the Forum, Agora, and State Agora formed the heart of Side's social and commercial life. Wandering through these ruins, amidst the remains of ancient marketplaces, gathering areas, and public buildings, you can uncover fascinating clues to daily life in ancient Side. ### Temples by the Sea and Eternal Sunsets One of the most iconic symbols of Side Ancient City is, without doubt, the Temple of Apollo. With its sand-coloured columns bathed in the golden hues of sunset, this temple creates a truly postcard-perfect scene. Dedicated to the god Apollo, and standing alongside the nearby Temple of Athena, these structures carry the sacred beliefs of antiquity into the present day, taking on an exceptionally breathtaking atmosphere, especially in the evening. A sunset viewing here is an absolute must; the moments when the Mediterranean is painted with shades of orange and purple will be etched into your memory forever. Ancient ruins, bathhouses, and fountains stretching along the coastline reveal that Side was not merely a port city, but also a prosperous community. A visit to the Side Museum offers a closer look at artefacts unearthed from the city's excavations, providing deeper insight into the region's rich history. Allow ample time to explore Side, get lost in its charming streets, and uncover the stories hidden around every corner. Side offers a delightful and educational experience, particularly for families with children, making it an excellent choice for a holiday steeped in history. A day spent in Side will be filled with unforgettable memories. Enhance your trip by exploring our tours that cover this gem of Antalya and its surroundings: [Perge Aspendos Side Tour](/en/tours/perge-aspendos-side-tour) and [Antalya City Tour](/en/tours/antalya-city-tour). Don't forget to check out other beautiful sites in the [Side region](/en/regions/side) for further discovery.

History

The origins of Side Ancient City date back to the 7th century BC. It rapidly developed as one of the most important port cities of the Pamphylian region, falling under the dominion of the Lydian Kingdom in the 6th century BC, followed by the Persian Empire. With Alexander the Great's conquest of Pamphylia, Side entered the Hellenistic period, experiencing significant cultural and economic growth. The city declared its independence in the 2nd century BC, playing a crucial role in Mediterranean trade and enjoying a period of great prosperity. During the Roman period (1st century BC - 3rd century AD), Side reached its golden age, with its magnificent theatre, temples, and agoras being constructed. However, after the 4th century AD, it began to decline due to pirate raids and wars. The city gradually became deserted with Arab invasions and the decline of the Byzantine Empire, being completely abandoned by the 10th century and becoming a mysterious ruin buried under sand. Side's modern history was revitalised in the early 20th century with the settlement of immigrants, and today it is being rediscovered through both archaeological excavations and tourism.

Visiting information

Side Ancient City is open daily. During summer months (April-October), hours are typically 08:30-19:30, and in winter (November-March), 08:30-17:30. Entry fee is approximately 15-20 EUR (a separate ticket may be needed for Side Museum, combined tickets are often available). The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is cooler and crowds are thinner. From Side town centre, it's easily accessible on foot. From nearby hotels and towns like Manavgat, taxis or local minibuses (dolmuş) are readily available. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes transport and expert commentary. It is advisable to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun cream, and water, especially during warmer months as shaded areas are limited. Within the ancient city, there are uneven stone paths. Access for wheelchairs or strollers might be challenging in some areas, but main paths and popular spots like the Temple of Apollo are reasonably accessible.