| Side (pronounced see-deh), is a beautiful coastal resort on the Mediterranean. It is approximately 15kms east of Antalya (one of Turkey`s largest cities) and is located on a small peninsula only 800m in length. In this pretty town, modern architecture, chic shops and late night bars stand in juxtaposition with the ruins of an ancient city. Flanked by two stretches of golden beach, surrounded by the sparkling waters of Mediterranean on both sides and bestowed with the endless archeological wonders - Side has aptly prospered as one of the most popular resorts for holidaymakers from across the globe. Added (09.07.2009, 12:44) --------------------------------------------- History of the City Side was founded by Aeolians of the Aegean region. The history of the town extends back to the 7C BC. "Side" meant "pomegranate" in the local language. Until the Roman Imperial period, pomegranate was the symbol used on the coins of Side. In the two centuries following Alexander the Great, Side was dominated usually by the Seleucids of Syria and less often by the Ptolemy of Egypt. The peak period of the city of Side started around 2C BC when it had established and maintained good relations with the Roman Empire. This period continued until the 3C AD. The most impressive of the structures to be seen in town had been constructed during those times. Side lost its prominence during the 4C AD, however it prospered as a clerical center in the 5C AD. With earthquakes, Christian zealots and Arab raids, by the 10C AD, the site was completely abandoned, left to be buried. The last massive settlement to Side has been in 1895 when Turkish immigrants from Crete were settled in the town. This settlement is the nucleus of the present town. But the old and the new are insolubly merged and intertwined in Side. Added (09.07.2009, 13:05) --------------------------------------------- Main attractions Side offers for visitors are: Aspendos The Aspendos is a theatre, which was built in 167 A.D. by architect Zeno, son of Theodorius. It contains 40 rows of marble banks built against a hilltop and used to accommodate 15,000 people in its heydays. This Hellenistic theatre was built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius and was dedicated to the Gods. It was built by two brothers, as a gift to the city, and till date it is extremely well preserved and very much in use. Aspendos also has a 225m long historical bridge that was built by an Anatolian emperor in the 13th century. This bridge has been recently restored and houses souvenir shops. Apart from these, Aspendos is endowed with the remnants of a Basilica, Agora and one of the largest aqueducts (100 A.D.) in Anatolia. Temples of Apollo and Athena Built in the second half of the second century A.D., these identical looking temples were dedicated to Athena (Side`s patron Goddess) and Apollo. Manavgat This waterfall is a cozy stop, with restaurants and shops and attracts many tourists. Beaches Apart from the historical treasures, Side is also bestowed with nature`s bounty. Deep blue Mediterranean Sea, gust of fresh air and two extraordinary beaches of golden colored sand on either side. Some other attractions include the Byzantine hospital (6th century B.C.), Nymphaeum (fountain in the city wall), the Roman bath converted into museum, etc.
Сообщение отредактировал T_princess - Thursday, 09.07.2009, 13:08 |