Overlooking the waterfront in Side, the Temple of Apollo is the city's most recognisable and most cherished landmark, especially impressive at sunset when it becomes a popular gathering point for both locals and visitors alike.
Built in the 2nd century AD in honor of the Greek god of the Sun, the Temple of Apollo is one of Turkey's most impressive ancient monuments, occupying a commanding position on the seafront not far from the harbor.
According to the local legend, this was the spot where Mark Antony met Cleopatra, and there's a palpable air of history and romance here in the evenings as the sun goes down over the Mediterranean, its rays crossing the temple's columns.
Only a small section of the building now remains, five fluted Corinthian columns topped with a pediment carrying a frieze of Gorgon heads, along with several column bases. Nearby are the less well-preserved ruins of other ancient structures, which are also well worth exploring, including a Temple of Athena, dating from the same period, and a Byzantine basilica, built in the 5th century AD.
According to the local legend, this was the spot where Mark Antony met Cleopatra
The ruins are set on a little peninsula jutting out into the Mediterranean and are particularly beguiling at night when they are illuminated for dramatic effect.
Located just a short distance from the harbor, they are easily accessible to those visiting the Turkish Riviera on a crewed yacht charter.
Not far from the city of Antalya, Side is an unmissable highlight of Turkey's southern Mediterranean coastline, especially for those interested in ancient history, and the Temple of Apollo is one of the most entrancing of the many archaeological treasures to be found on the Turquoise Coast.
If you would like to incorporate a trip to the Temple of Apollo into your charter yacht itinerary, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker.
Alternatively, you can view the entire fleet of superyachts available for Turkey yacht charters.
