Side was once one of the most important ports of Pamphylia. It was founded by Greek colonists from Aeolitha in the 7th century BC. Side was later ruled by the Persians and Lycians, the Seleucids, the rulers of Pergamum and Rome, and Alexander the Great. In the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, the city became rich from the trade in slaves, especially beautiful girls. It is this period that is considered to be the stage of Side's prosperity. The most interesting and beautiful monuments were created in Side when the city was under the Roman Empire. The power of the Roman era and the greatness of its rulers can still be felt here.
Side begins behind the high city gates, which were erected in 71 B.C. as a mark of respect for Emperor Vespasian and his son and heir Titus. Vespasian led the city for seventy years, from 9-79 AD. A sculptural portrait of this emperor is kept in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin.
The arched gate is over six metres high and is considered the main gate of the city. Over the years, the appearance of the gate has changed a lot and now it looks different, but the walls are still intact. Their appearance is quite interesting and original, but nowadays it is very difficult to appreciate it - the gate has been damaged quite badly. Despite its dilapidated state, the gate still amazes visitors with its majesty and uniqueness.
The main gate of the city is located between two towers. On the sides of the gate, on the walls are niches with arches, which used to house statues of noblemen and the emperor. If you pass through the gate, you can see a huge ancient square and enjoy the view of the beautiful Nympheum fountain.
The arched gate is located in the northern part of the city and leads to its historical part. The road coming from the gate is considered to be the main street of the old town.
