As the Antalya News team, we introduce you to the Side Ancient City, which is located 80 kilometers east of Antalya and 7 kilometers southwest of Manavgat and has hosted many civilizations throughout history. Drawing attention with its rich history, this ancient city stands out not only as a port city but also as a cultural and commercial center that carries the traces of different civilizations to the present day.
Side's Story Beginning in Ancient Times
Side began to be used as a settlement area from the 7th century BC onwards and soon became one of the most important port cities of the region. Side came under the rule of the Lydian Kingdom in the 6th century BC and became an important trade center during this period. However, the real rise of Side took place during Alexander the Great's Anatolian campaign in 334 BC. Side, which did not resist Alexander, gained great momentum in both commercial and cultural terms and solidified its place in history as a coin minting center.
Roman Period: The Golden Age of Side
Although Side faced the threat of piracy in the 1st century BC, this problem was eliminated with the intervention of the Roman Empire. Side, which was part of the Roman Empire from 25 BC onwards, experienced a great economic and cultural rise, especially in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. The magnificent structures built during this period and the expanding port made Side one of the most important cities in the region. During the Roman period, Side reached its peak in art, architecture and trade.
The Fall of Side and the Byzantine Period
With the decline of the Roman Empire, Side's bright period came to an end. Economic difficulties began in the 4th century, and Arab raids in the 5th and 6th centuries further weakened the city's power. During the Byzantine period, Side was known as the home of pirates, and most of the population migrated to the region known as "New Antalya ". Despite this, Side's historical heritage continued to attract attention.
Today's Side: A Historical Discovery Area
Today, Side continues to exist as an important tourist destination for history lovers with its ancient ruins. Side Ancient City carries traces of the past with its monumental streets, theater, temples and other magnificent structures. Selimiye Village represents a different cultural texture added to this historical heritage. Offering a unique discovery area for history lovers and travelers about Antalya , Side is not only a reflection of the ancient world, but also an important port city reflecting the common heritage of civilizations. Visiting Side, which carries the splendor of the past to the present, means a journey to both history and nature.
