SIDE

Those that remember I had stopped to sightsee Side on the way to Manavgat. I knew that what Haydar bey showed us was no where near what Side had to offer. The guy didn't take us to the ancient city of Side. He basically gave us a quick run down of the new developments of Side and that was it.



After chatting with Osman amca (Tugcens ensite) we set out to explore SIDE - The ancient city. After a short drive we arrived to Side and hola here were all the ruins. This was christmas at once for me as it meant alot of photo opportunities. I love my stones and my broken stones more.



There's alot of history hidden in the ancient city involving alot of empires and of course Alexander the Great. Before the Roman empire the city was destructed by the Rhodian fleet and its use as a base by the Cilician pirates, who converted Side into the largest slave market in the whole region! I know sounds like a page out of HI!



However the Romans sent some people over to clear the pirates from the sea, burning hundreds of their vessels in the process. Yes there's alot of blood splatted in Side. Once the Romans cleared the pirates out of the way the golden age of the city began with the construction of new defence walls to provide for the protection of a population which had now spread out beyond the old walls.



The city was practically rebuilt, with new constuctions including the largest theatre in the region with the capacity of 18 000.



Now at Side you will see the ancient street and the entrances to the shops. The building now used as a musuem situated on the left of the road leading to the theatre. Photos of ancient ruins below:



The famous theatre in Side - Inside view:

As you walk past rows of touristic hotels, restuarants and bars you will start seeing the water. Beach view in the ancient city:

Following the water you will come to the area containing temples of Athena and Apollo. Yes I know it looks like temples from Athens! I've been told these temples used to serve as lighthouses with fire burning on their walls. Pictures of the temples below:

I was lucky enough to see the temples of Athena & Apollo in 2004 in my Turkey tour. However I quite enjoyed seeing them again and to know they are still standing here after 3 years. With the tour we only saw the temples so this time around it's been great that we got to explore the ancient city and to walk inside the famous theatre.

Passing the temple and continuing towards the right you will hit the habour with amazing views:

I must admit I've become a huge fan of Side now that I have explored it. I've heard alot in regards to Side having a fantastic night life as well. I know that alot of Turkish local singers such as Sibel Can & Ebru Gundres have weekly concerts here as well.

Those that get a chance should check Side out. I highly recommend that you spent the few dollars and enter the theatre. It is definately worth while seeing. Apparently they use the theatre now for concerts as well. I think a night concert in there would be great.

Now it's time for boot camp...