Side Suffers Effects of Unplanned Development

Unlicensed construction and tourism focused on money have damaged Antalya's resort town of Side, according to the town's mayor.

"Side has the richest historic remains of the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine eras," said Side Mayor Abdulkadir Uçar on Saturday. Uçar was speaking at a Union of Historical Towns meeting hosted by Side Municipality in Manavgat.

The mayor said the historic structure of Side will be preserved by demolishing unlicensed buildings in the district and making new arrangements.

"What makes Side different from other resort towns is its unique historical, natural and archeological richness," said Uçar. "Tourism started in Side in 1965 with small pensions, but since a plan for the construction of tourism facilities, the necropolis in the west of the district has been invaded by buildings."

Uçar said preparations have been launched to preserve the historic remains. "I give my promise to all participants that you will not see one building threatening the historic remains when you visit Side next year," he said.

Speaking at the same meeting, Antalya Gov. Alaaddin Yüksel said the rich history of Side was even a source of inspiration for the European Union. "Patara two millennia ago was home to the Lycian League, history's first-known democratic union, which also inspired the founders of the United States and the EU," said Yüksel. "The ancient parliament building in Patara will have been restored by Oct. 29, 2010 and will host speakers of parliament from all around the world during the World Parliament Speakers Meeting."

The Lycian League, made up of representatives of Lycia's independent city-states, was the first known democratic union in history and is seen in many ways as a model political organization.

Known for their collaborative instincts and strong regional-cultural identity, the Lycians formed a league that remained strong despite the steep geography dividing the federation's lands, invasions by foreign powers and attempts by would-be tyrants to take control.

Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=1213140355417-2009-12-13