About this experience
The territory of Side is one of the largest archaeological zones in Turkey. I invite you to take a leisurely stroll through the ancient city, admire the arches, columns, and pagan temples. By touching the ancient walls of Side, you will delve deeper into the meaning of the word 'eternity.' And you will feel the eternal spirit of beautiful Greece, mysterious Lycia, and glorious Rome.
What to expect
Amphitheater, Nymphaeum, and ruins
On Column Street, we will see majestic columns and the foundations of buildings with room divisions. We will examine the magnificent Nymphaeum, resembling a palace, although it is a fountain with three basins adorned with statues of nymphs. We will pass by the amphitheater—one of the largest in modern-day Turkey—and recall the ancient festival of Epibakterion celebrated here. We will glance at the remains of the bishop's palace and the ruins of the hospital—structures from the early Christian era. By the fragments of the fortress wall, I will tell you about pirate raids and the time when Side became a center of the slave trade.
Agora, Triumphal Arch, and Temples
You will see the archaeological museum and Side's postcard view—the temple of Apollo, built in the 2nd century BC. You will learn who and what the beautiful Apollo and wise Athena patronized (her temple was nearby). By the Roman baths, I will tell you about the rules of their visitation. By the Arch of Vespasian, I will describe how emperors entered the city in triumphal chariots. And of course, we will visit the Agora—the ancient marketplace where important events took place. In its center stands the temple of the goddess of luck, Tyche.
Organizational Details
- Visits to the archaeological museum and amphitheater are paid and time-consuming, so we will only explore the exterior. If you wish, you can visit them on your own after the tour.
- The excursion includes a break for a snack or lunch at a cafe by the harbor. Lunch is an additional cost.
