Side Museum (Side Muzesi)
Side Liman Cadessi, Manavgat, Antalya, 07330
Side is an ancient trading port on the eastern Mediterranean that was once home to hundreds of Greek merchants. This historic coastal town thrived under Roman rule, and many ruins from the second century bear both Greek and Roman influences. Today, visitors can relax on the sandy beaches and explore the impressive Roman Theater and Apollo Temple. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Side Museum—located in a 2nd-century Roman marketplace, this former baths complex has been beautifully converted.
The basics
The Side Museum in Turkey is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history. If you’re planning a visit, there are certain exhibits you simply cannot miss. The museum houses several impressive sculptures, including divine statues of Hercules and Hermes and the frieze of Aphrodite and the Three Graces. Discover a treasure trove of ancient artifacts such as weapons, sundials, tombs, and mosaic fragments dating from Greek to Byzantine periods on display in beautifully curated rooms, once used as steam rooms and pools in the Roman Baths. Don’t forget to spend some time exploring the museum’s outdoor garden, which features an ancient fountain and several other artifacts.
Things to know before you go
- The Side Museum can be reached by car or bus from the city of Antalya, which is located approximately 37 miles (60 kilometers) away.
- The Side Museum is open at different hours depending on the season. Summer time: 8:30am–6:45pm, and winter time: 10:00am–4:00pm.
- You can either pay an admission fee for the Side Museum or combine it with a ticket to the Amphitheater.
How to get there
Side is just east of the popular coastal city of Antalya, which is served by a major international airport. From Antalya, you can either arrange a day tour out to Side or take a bus to Manavgat. From Manavgat, Side Museum is just a 10-minute taxi ride from the bus station or otogar.
When to get there
Side, Turkey, is a destination that can be enjoyed all year round, but the best time to visit would be during the spring and fall months. During these times, the temperatures are mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the ancient ruins of Side. The spring months of April and May bring blooming flowers and lush greenery, while the fall months of September and October offer a milder climate with fewer crowds.
Combine with a visit to nearby ruins
The Side Museum in Turkey is home to a wealth of historical artifacts and treasures that date back to the era of the Roman Empire. The artifacts exhibited were unearthed during the excavations of the ancient city of Side, including sculptures, torso portraits, relief sarcophagi and ash urns, inscriptions in Greek and Side language, altars, and columns coming from the nearby amphitheater. It’s worth combining a visit to the museum with the ruins, to really imagine what the place would have looked like in its prime.
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