Side Attractions
Being the historical place it is, Side is home to many stories of the Roman Empire, legends of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, folklore and most importantly ruins of what all of these have left behind. Therefore, a visit to Side is not complete without getting an actual glimpse of what remains from the Roman occupation in this part of Turkey. The most significant of all Roman ruins is the gargantuan Aspendos Amphitheatre which massively stands tall on the peninsula of the old town of Side. It looks much like a coliseum mainly because the ancient Greeks could not build it the way most of their amphitheaters are built due to Side's geography. Apart from this fascinating structure, Side's history have left behind many more wonders such as the Hellenistic Great Gate, the Temple of Apollo and several agoras in the form of ruins for our eyes to feast on. While almost all the structures are left untouched and preserved as well as possible in their original states, the Side Museum was interestingly a public bath back in the day. It only shows how great the architecture of yesteryears were that something such as a bath could be converted into a museum which exhibits all of Side's historical and archaeological wonders from Alexander the Great's occupation way back before the birth of Christ to the fourth century where the region was invaded by highlanders from the mountains of Taurus.
Now that the past is over and the present of Side is here and now, this place is simply a breathtaking coastal town with beaches you could almost die for. However, the long stretches of white sandy beach along the main coasts of Side are not the only natural wonders in the area. Take a boat from one of the harbors going to Manavgat and you will soon lay eyes on possibly the most beautiful waterfall you have ever seen. It may not be as massive as the Niagara Falls or as tall as Angel Falls but the Manavgat Falls is a truly unique stretch of considerably low waterfalls which grace along the Manavgat River and is certainly a sight to behold. The Manavgat River's mouth is a place you can get a feel of the brackish water, a great way to experience both freshwater and seawater in a fascinatingly tranquil surrounding.
With its history factor which sees so many beautiful structures built in the time where Roman empires roamed Europe combined with its geography which makes it a naturally beautiful place thanks to the glorious beaches and sceneries under the Mediterranean sunlight, Side is really a great place to spend a holiday in. Quite simply, the entire peninsula of the old town of Side is a main attraction on its own and wherever you venture into, you are sure to find something that pleases if not astounds your senses of sight and maybe hearing. Side; simply wonderful.
