Turkey rekindles ancient city of Side, shedding light on its historical past
In the heart of Antalya, southern Turkey, the ancient city of Side is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Known for its historical ruins, pristine beaches, and vibrant hotels, Side dates back to the seventh century B.C. and is a significant center in tourism.
The city, once the most significant port city of ancient Pamphylia, has been welcoming visitors since excavation works began in 1947. Today, Side enchants visitors both day and night, with its ancient theater, agora, thermal baths, ancient harbor, and temples standing as testaments to its rich history.
Domestic and international tourists flock to Side during the night, escaping the daytime heat and taking a nighttime journey into history. The city's illuminated silhouette, with its historic structures shining under the sun during the day and captivating viewers from both land and sea at night, has made Side a popular destination for night tourism.
Major investments have been made to ensure visitors enjoy their time and to provide economic benefits to the local population. The key features of these investments include:
- Rapid restoration of ancient structures: Many significant ruins and temples, such as the Apollon and Athena temples, have been excavated, restored, and outfitted with special lighting to enhance visitor experience.
- Expansion and diversification of archaeological work: Excavation zones have been broadened beyond earlier limits, extending the archaeological borders of Side.
- Modernization of visitor facilities: Improvements include a newly established visitor center, multilingual services (including Chinese and Russian), and the restoration of the Side Archaeology Museum while preserving its original texture. The museum is now also accessible at night.
- Integration of technology and scientific methods: There is an increasing use of technology and artificial intelligence in excavation and preservation efforts, adapting archaeological fieldwork practices with innovative tools.
- Cultural and artistic events planned: Restoration of the ancient theater is ongoing, with completion expected next year, when it will host cultural and artistic events, promoting sustainable tourism experiences.
- Strong government and institutional support: All projects receive funding and backing from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, with no reported budget issues, enabling continuous progress across multiple sites including monumental fountains.
- Balance between preservation and modern tourism: Efforts aim to preserve historical texture while providing modern visitor experiences, making Side an exemplary destination for sustainable tourism that benefits the local economy and population.
The "Legacy for the Future Project" has played a significant role in these investments, revealing traces of the past and presenting historical ruins in a magnificent setting. The visitor center in Side has been transformed into a welcoming center, further enhancing the visitor experience.
With the restoration of Side's ancient theater set to be completed next year, cultural and artistic events are set to begin, promising a vibrant future for this ancient city that seamlessly blends history with modernity.
- The Legacy for the Future Project, a major investment, has contributed to the restoration and enhancement of Side's ancient theater, aiming to preserve its historical texture while boosting modern tourism experiences.
- As a firm supporter of the city's transformation, the Turkish government has extended funding for archaeological excavations and visitor facility modernization, blending culture, lifestyle, and home-and-garden appeal into the travel experience.
- In the evenings, tourists flock to Side's illuminated ancient ruins and structures, embracing a unique fusion of Europe's rich history and vibrant modern culture, thereby promoting a sustainable lifestyle and travel choices.
