Day 11.1

Another bus trip into town this morning.  Pete T and his misses were on the bus too. We knew where we were going this time, the museum, so were quite chilled, even though it took a different route than before. 

The museum is situated in the old bath complex, right by the theatre. We decided that having been to Aspendos, Side's theatre wouldn't hold much interest. The museum on the other hand has some marvellous pieces to view and admire.

Just inside the gate sits a Roman milestone. The Romans built a 333 mile long road from Pergamon to Side, during their first incursion into Asia Minor. This marker was located at mile 331 and you can clearly make this out on the stone.

Inside the bath house, there are some lovely statues, particularly of Hermes. So well preserved, they are remarkable. There are also some beautiful carved reliefs and sarcophagi, again remarkably well preserved. Catherine's favourite piece though, was a terracotta money box, found containing 405 silver dinarii. That was about 8 months money for a soldier of the day.

Beautiful marble sarcophagus

It's a nice little museum, costing less than £3.00 and well worth every penny for the quality of exhibits. 

Alas poor Aurelius (maybe)

Back in the hotel, we've had a snack. Later we'll be heading back to the beach for one last swim/float 😁