Side was the most important trade center of ancient Pamphylia. The city was founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BC. The name 'Side' is Anatolian in origin and means 'pomegranate'.
Like other Pamphylian cities, Side initially came under Lydian rule. The city was conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC, which introduced the local population to Hellenistic culture. In the 1st century BC, Side became a major center for slave trade. During the Roman Empire period, Side flourished as an important commercial hub for olive oil trading.
The impressive city walls from the Roman period stand 10 meters high and extend nearly 6 kilometers in length. The archaeological site features remains of houses, an agora, a monumental fountain, and the Colonnaded Street connecting the main entrance gate to the agora. The Roman-era theater, with a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators, was used for gladiatorial contests and remains remarkably well-preserved. Side's ancient ruins include three temple complexes. The site was abandoned in the 7th century when a devastating earthquake destroyed the aqueduct system that supplied water to the city. Notable architectural features include concrete blocks made with an innovative mixture of egg and gravel.
Archaeological excavations at Side have been continuously conducted since 1947.