Side - Unique Beauty in the Museum and Open Air

The road that turns towards South will take you to Side Museum at kilometre 72nd of the main road from Antalya to Alanya direction after about 6 km. Side is one of the most famous holiday resorts nowadays. It is supposed that Side had been founded by the Kymellians in the 7th Century B.C., settled on a small peninsula that extends into the Mediterranean. 

With ancient city ruins that witnessed a history of thousands of years on one side and with many different facilities of various beauties that enfolder tourism on the other side, the position of Side is unique, compared to the common holiday resorts.
Besides the beaches that preserve their charm at any given moment with their fine sand and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean through which it shows its entire adorableness, with various cultural and sporting activities, Side is a heavenly resort, where you will wish that you could stop the time.

Such an engagement of history and nature, offers lively moments to the visitors of this charming town, all day long and during the night.

Side Museum - The history inside and Open Air

The Side Museum is located in city center of Side, about 8 km from Manavgat. The former Roman Bath ´next to the ancient agora that is left from 2nd – 3rd Century A.C. belonging to the Roman period, it has been restored as a museum during the years 1960/61. 

Most of the historical artefacts that are exhibited in the Side Museum are those that had been found during the archaeological excavations performed by Professor Dr. Arif Müfid Mansel between 1947 and 1967 in the ancient town of Side.  There are inscriptions, weapon embossing from Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine Periods, sculptures which are Roman Period copies of Greek originals, torsos, temples, tomb steles, portraits, osmotic and column pedestals on exhibition in the museum.

Exhibits in the Hamam (Side Museum) Building 

Hall Number I (Fridigarium) : Some basalt craters from the Late Hittite Period, weapon embossing work from the Hellenistic Period, sun dials, temples from the Roman period are exhibited 
Hall Number II (Sudatorium) : Torsos from Roman Period are exhibited. 
Hall Number III (Caldarium) : Inscription from Hellenistic Period, amphorae from Roman Period, Heracles, Three Graces, Nike sculptures and embossing arts are exhibited. 
Hall Number IV (Tepidarium) : Tombs from Roman period, Hermes, Hygeia, Athena, Nike, Apollo sculptures, torsos and portraits are exhibited. 

Exhibits:
Ostothek tombs, columns, column pedestals, column capitals, embossing work, inscriptions, steles and various architectural remains from Hellenistic and Roman periods are exhibited.

The Side Museum – Discover Ancient Treasures Within Ancient Walls - more details

Introduction to the Ancient City of Side

Travelers to Side often first think of sun, sand, and sea. But right in the heart of the city lies a cultural gem that surprises many: the Side Museum. It's not just full of ancient treasures – it's also a part of history.

Where is Side Museum, and what makes it special?

Side is located on the Turkish Riviera, about an hour's drive from Antalya. The city was once an important trading center in ancient times and has retained its historic charm to this day.

A City with Deep-Rooted History

Side's origins date back to the 7th century BC. The Roman period, in particular, has left its mark here, which you can experience up close.

Overview of the Side Museum

A Museum in a Roman Bathhouse

What makes the museum so special? It's located in an ancient Roman bathhouse dating back to the 2nd century! Here, exhibits and historical buildings merge in a fascinating way.

A unique combination of architecture and exhibition

The massive stone walls, ancient arches, and original floors create an atmosphere that transports you back to the Roman era.

The History of the Side Museum

From Ruin to Cultural Treasure

The bathhouse was restored in the 1950s and converted into a museum – with great success. Today, it is one of the most important museums in the region.

Opening and Significance for the Region

Since its opening in 1962, it has not only preserved artifacts but has also actively contributed to Side's identity.

What can you expect at the Side Museum?

Sculptures, Sarcophagi, and Inscriptions

Here you'll find everything an archaeologist's heart desires: statues of Roman gods, elaborately decorated sarcophagi, and stone tablets with Latin and Greek inscriptions.

Insights into Roman and Hellenistic Life

The exhibits show how people lived, prayed, traded, and expressed themselves artistically at that time.

The Highlights of the Collection

The Apollo Sarcophagus

A masterpiece of Roman sculpture depicting the mythological scene of Apollo and the Muses – impressive in its attention to detail.

Reliefs and Busts from Antiquity

The realistic facial features and delicate draping of the figures are true works of art.

Antique Ambience – The Museum as a Part of History

A Tour of the Former Bathhouse

The exhibition is housed in various rooms of the bathhouse – such as the thermal baths, the frigidarium, and the caldarium. Each room tells its own story.

Restoration and Conservation Measures

With great effort and expertise, the building was preserved and converted to meet modern museum standards without losing its historical character.

Educational Value and Cultural Education

Hands-On Archaeology

The museum is particularly ideal for young visitors – it brings history closer and more tangible.

Relevance for School Classes and Culture Lovers

Many schools and cultural groups visit Side precisely for this museum – here, education comes alive.

Museum Education and Guided Tours

Information for Families with Children

There are child-friendly explanations and materials – ideal for a family outing.

Guided Tour Offers

Guided tours offer additional background information and exciting stories about the exhibits.

Side – The Perfect Setting for Culture and the Sea

Combining Beach Holidays and Culture

Want to head straight to the sea after visiting the museum? In Side, it's possible – history and vacation go hand in hand here.

Other Nearby Attractions

The Roman Theater, the Agora, and the Temple of Apollo are just a few steps away – a true open-air museum.

Opening Hours, Admission, and How to Get There

When and How to Visit the Museum

The museum is open year-round – usually from morning until late afternoon. A morning visit is recommended.

Ticket Prices and Discounts

Admission is inexpensive, and discounts are often available for schoolchildren, students, and groups.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

What Should You Bring?

Bring a camera, sun hat, and a water bottle – the museum is partially open and can be very warm in summer.

Accessibility and Facilities

Some areas are wheelchair accessible, and restrooms and a small museum shop are available.

Is photography permitted?

Notes on taking photographs in the museum

Photography is mostly permitted – without flash and not at all exhibits. Follow the instructions!

Best spots for pictures

The large statues and the harmonious interplay of stone and light inside offer perfect subjects.

Conclusion – A treasure trove of Roman history on the Turkish Riviera

The Side Museum is far more than just a place to store ancient stones – it is a living gateway to the past. The atmosphere of the Roman bathhouse, the impressive exhibits, and the historic location make it an unforgettable experience for culture buffs and vacationers alike.

FAQs about the Side Museum

1. How much time should you plan for the museum?
About 1 to 1.5 hours – more if you want to delve deeper into the exhibits.

2. Can you visit the museum with children?
Yes, it is very family-friendly and offers exciting insights even for young visitors.

3. Is there parking nearby?
Yes, parking is available near the museum.

4. In which languages ​​is the information available?
The information panels are mostly in Turkish and English, sometimes also in German.

5. How much does admission to the Side Museum cost?
Admission prices are moderate – combination tickets with other attractions are often available.

Please read as well:

Theatre of Side - from Hellenistic to Roman design
Laurel bushes line the path at Oymapinar dam

• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
• Roman Museum Side - open air Museum Roman Museum Side - open air Museum
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