Side (pronounced see-deh), means "Pomegranate", the symbol of fertility, is a beautiful coastal resort on the Mediterranean. It is approximately 15kms east of Antalya (one of Turkey`s largest cities) and is located on a small peninsula only 800m in length. In this pretty town, modern architecture, chic shops and late night bars stand in harmony with the ruins of an ancient city. Flanked by two stretches of golden beach, surrounded by the sparkling waters of Mediterranean on both sides and bestowed with the endless archaeological wonders - Side has aptly prospered as one of the most popular resorts for holidaymakers from across the globe. Side's archaeological importance means there are strict local planning regulations, which has helped the town maintain its charming character. Side is at the centre of a beautiful and very diverse region where the Taurus Mountains descend to the Pamphylian Plain. The unspoilt Sorgun forest, just east of the resort, offers walks or horse riding along its sandy trails. A new links golf course is already under construction ,only 15 minutes drive, this will join numerous courses already at Belek, which is only 30 minutes away. Indeed, with over 30 courses planned for the Antalya region over the next 10 years, Side promises to be at the centre of Europe's most exciting new golfing area. If you want to experience the perfect harmony of history and nature you should definitely include Side in your itinerary. With its history dating back to the 6th century B.C., Side brags of one of the earliest settlements of the Anatolia region. Side, due to its situational advantage served as an important harbour during the Hittite period and hence was a significant commercial town. Side large merchant fleets carried on business with the eastern and western Mediterranean countries. Earlier, the region served as a slave market, which traded in African slaves and as a hideout for pirates! This is because its long sandy beaches were perfect hideouts for pirates and slave traders. However, later it also flourished as a legitimate commercial center. Culturally too, the region was quite progressive and till date the ancient amphitheatre, the temples of Gods and Goddesses, the Roman baths and various archaeological finds bear the proof of that. Main attractions Side offers for visitors are:
Aspendos The Aspendos is a theatre, which was built in 167 A.D. by architect Zeno, son of Theodorius. It contains 40 rows of marble banks built against a hilltop and used to accommodate 15,000 people in its heydays. This Hellenistic theatre was built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius and was dedicated to the Gods. It was built by two brothers, as a gift to the city, and till date it is extremely well preserved and very much in use.
Aspendos also has a 225m long historical bridge that was built by an Anatolian emperor in the 13th century. This bridge has been recently restored and houses souvenir shops. Apart from these, Aspendos is endowed with the remnants of a Basilica, Agora and one of the largest aqueducts (100 A.D.) in Anatolia.
Temples of Apollo and Athena Built in the second half of the second century A.D., these identical looking temples were dedicated to Athena (Side`s patron Goddess) and Apollo.
Manavgat This waterfall at jade green Manavgat River is a cosy stop, with restaurants and shops and attracts many tourists.
Beaches Apart from the historical treasures, Side is also bestowed with nature`s bounty. Deep blue Mediterranean Sea, gust of fresh air and two extraordinary beaches of golden colored sand on either side. You can paraglide, scuba dive and jet ski to name a few sports available at Side to enjoy or just relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
Some other attractions include the Byzantine hospital (6th century B.C.), Nymphaeum (fountain in the city wall), the Roman bath converted into museum.
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