Strategic Importance of a Port City: Side

Side Ancient City took its place on the stage of history as the most important port city of Pamphylia. B.C. Founded as a settlement in the 7th century, Side has hosted many civilizations over time. Traces of great civilizations such as the Greeks, Lydians, Persians, Romans, Seljuks and Ottomans have survived to this day in the city. Being a port city has enabled Side to have an important position in trade and strategic terms.

 

🔶 Bright Periods and Fading Over Time

 

In the 5th and 6th centuries, Side experienced a bright period as a bishopric center. However, invasions such as Arab raids and crusades caused the city to lose its power over time. Looting and natural disasters accelerated this process and the city was abandoned. Side, which was completely evacuated in the 12th century, came under the rule of the Seljuks and the Hamitoğulları Principality. Since the Seljuks and Ottomans did not establish settlements, artifacts from these periods are not found.

 

🔶 Traces of Historical Heritage: Important Buildings of Side Ancient City

 

Side Ancient City attracts attention with its rich historical heritage as well as the strategic importance of being a port city. Among the important structures in the city are the city gate, colonnaded streets, city walls, trade agora, state agora, monumental fountain, waterway, houses, theatre, Vespasian Fountain, triumphal arch, Temple of Dionysus, episcopal palace and basilica, southern basilica, Temple of Apollo, There are the Temple of Athena, the large bath, the harbor bath, the baptistery, the Wall of Philippus Attius and the agora bath used as the Side Museum.

 

🔶 Side Ancient Theater: The Only Example in Anatolia

 

Among the most impressive structures in the city, Side Ancient Theater stands out. The features of the seating rows of the theater, built in the tradition of Roman Architecture, are different from other theaters in Anatolia. The fact that the seating rows lean on the hillside and the upper part is shaped inclined on the vaults reveals the uniqueness of this theater.

 

🔶 Historical Journey in Side Ancient City

 

Side Ancient City offers a historical journey to its visitors today. With its thousands of years of history, walking around the ancient city is like going on a journey through time. By walking the streets of Side, you can explore the depths of history and trace the traces of ancient times.