Side Ancient City

Side is an ancient city in Antalya Province, southern Turkey. Located on a peninsula along the Mediterranean coast, it was founded in the 7th century BC, and its name means "pomegranate."

Side was originally a natural port of the Pamphilia Kingdom and remained a thriving trading center during the Lydian, Persian, Alexander the Great, and Roman periods. It was also an important slave market during the Roman Empire. Legend has it that Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, and the Roman general Antony met here. After the 10th century, the ancient city gradually fell into ruin due to fires, earthquakes, and Arab invasions.

Today, Side is a famous tourist destination, preserving numerous ancient Roman ruins, such as the Roman theater that could accommodate 20,000 spectators, the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Athena, and the Roman Baths. The five colossal columns of the Temple of Apollo are a landmark of Side.

In addition, the ancient city also contains colonnaded streets, a large market, and other relics, showcasing its former prosperity.