In a world dominated by modern conveniences and digital devices, it’s humbling to discover the surprising sophistication of ancient technologies.
A visit to the ancient city of Side, nestled on the Turkish Riviera, reveals just that.
Dating back to the 7th century BC, Side boasts ruins including a Roman forum, a theatre, and a reconstructed Greek fountain. The fountain showcases ingenious technology used to channel water into the city from the mountains.
While much of the city remains unexcavated, the visible infrastructure offers marvels that could inform modern urban planning. The Romans ingeniously integrated pipes into walls rather than burying them under streets, which prevented the need to disrupt areas for repairs.
According to Ismet, a local guide, Side’s 2,000-year-old drainage system remains fully functional, having recently passed a test with flying colours after heavy rainfall.
“This is the centre of the world,” Ismet proclaims, highlighting Side’s historical importance as a nexus of ancient trading routes.
Overlooking the sea under the sun, modern establishments breathe new life into the city’s ancient foundations.
I’m one of the many tourists wising up to what’s on offer along the Turkish Riviera. Around four hours flight from London, it’s a place where there are 320 days of sun a year, according to Ismet.
“Autumn is the best season,” he says, when daytime temperatures hover around 27 C and the sea is still blissfully warm. Plus, in October and November, you don’t have the same crowds as you would in summer.
I’m staying a five-minute drive away from Side, in a resort called Bijal. The Turkish Riviera might have a reputation for cheap and cheerful package holidays, but Bijal wants to change that and bring a bit of Maldives-inspired luxury to the coastline.
In fact, the owners – the Gürok Group – are also responsible for the Joali and Joali Being resorts in the Maldives. Similarly tropical and chic influences are felt in their Turkey outpost, which officially opened in spring last year.
Bijal feels delightfully quiet and serene compared to the hubbub outside its walls. All 19 villas have a private pool so you really don’t have to encounter anyone else if you don’t want to. And while I’ve taken the time to marvel at ancient technology, I can’t help…
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