Trip 16.05.2023   379

The Enchanting Citadel of Side Ancient City in the Hittite Period

Side Ancient City is estimated to have been founded in the 7th century BCE during the Hittite Period, among the oldest settlements in Anatolia. This ancient city, which attracts great interest from history and archaeology enthusiasts, has played an important role in the lives of the Hittites, Lydians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

It is said that Side, meaning "Pomegranate" in Anatolian, has its own unique language. This language, revealed in inscriptions, is believed to be a Luwian language derived from the native people of Anatolia, the Luwians. Side, an important port city, holds a position today as a center of science, culture, and trade.

Prior to the conversion to Christianity, Side had a belief system centered around gods such as Apollo and Athena, as well as Aphrodite, Ares, Asclepius, Hecate, Charites, Demeter, Dionysus, Hermes, and many others. The city is also rich in terms of temples. The remaining ruins of the city, severely damaged during Arab raids, attacks by the kings of Cyprus, and raids by pirates from Genoa, Venice, and Rhodes during the Crusades, constitute the main building blocks of Side Ancient City.

Located on a peninsula in Antalya, Side Ancient City stretches along an ancient street with Corinthian columned porticos on both sides, starting from the main gate, just like in other ancient cities of Pamphylia.

Where is Side Ancient City?

Side Ancient City is located about 80 km east of Antalya, 7 km southwest of Manavgat district. Built on a peninsula with a width of 350-400 meters, the ancient city has hosted many civilizations throughout history.

How to Get to Side Ancient City?

To reach Side Ancient City, you can first go to Antalya Bus Terminal and then take minibusses to Manavgat and Side districts. If you are at Antalya Airport, you can reach the ancient city after an average of 1.5 hours of journey by minibusses heading towards Side district.

If you have a private vehicle, you can easily reach the ancient city after a 70 km journey from Antalya city center towards Manavgat and Alanya.