Ancient City Side-Byzantine Hospital

The settlement of Side began approximately 3500 years ago, and the city developed into an important trade center. Its founding is dated to the 7th century BC. Side experienced its golden age during the Roman era in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. In the 5th or 6th century, Side became an episcopal see, leading to further constructions. The city was presumably abandoned in the 10th century, and an earthquake in the 12th century destroyed many of the remaining structures.

The Ancient City of Side is situated on a flat peninsula in the town of Selimiye, which belongs to the Antalya province in the Akdeniz (Mediterranean) region of Turkey. It is located at an elevation of approximately 8 meters above sea level.