Hadrian’s Gate
Hadrian’s Gate is a picturesque triple arch from the times of the Roman Empire, preserved in the sunny resort of Antalya. The monumental portal appeared in 130, shortly before the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the city and was named in his honor. Another name of the ancient gate “Uç Kapilar” translates as “three gates”. Since the passage was not used for a long time, it has survived to this day in excellent condition. Today, as it was almost 2000 years ago, the arched portal leads to Kaleici, the territory of Old Antalya. This is not the only entrance to the Old Town, but many people try to pass to the main historical monuments of Antalya here.
Video: Hadrian’s Gate
General Information
The antique Hadrian’s Gate makes a strong impression. The architectural monument ends with a coffered ceiling and is decorated with marble columns with capitals and a carved frieze with vegetal ornamentation. On the sidewalk under the central arch one can see potholes left by the wheels of ancient carts, chariots and horses’ hooves.
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On either side of Hadrian’s Gate are rectangular stone crenellated towers. The one on the south side is the older. It was built under the Romans and named after St. Julia. The northern tower appeared in the XIII century, when the Seljuk Turks ruled the surrounding lands.
.Hadrian’s Gate is a popular tourist attraction, near which almost all travelers who came on vacation to Antalya try to visit, especially since you can visit the architectural monument for free. To preserve the old sidewalk, a modern metal bridge with railings was built under the central arch for visitors. Near the monument there is a small cozy park, in which city residents and tourists like to spend time.
.History of Hadrian’s Gate
When Antalya became owned by Rome, the city turned into a thriving port. Rich houses and trading warehouses had to be protected, so the Romans surrounded the coastal city with strong fortress walls, and left a few gates for the passage inside. They were closed in the evenings and during hostilities.
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Since those distant times, the only Hadrian’s Gate has survived in Antalya. They originally had two floors and, as scholars suggest, were decorated with sculpted portraits of Hadrian and members of his family. But how things actually looked, is not known, so no historical sources have survived..How to get there
Hadrian’s Gate is located in the historical center of Antalya, in Barbaros Square, near the Karakaş Cami Mosque. The ancient monument is included in all sightseeing tours of the city, so most travelers are given a lift here on organized tours.
Those who want to get to Hadrian’s Gate on their own can do so by cab or bus. The ancient portal is located next to the modern busy thoroughfare, Ataturk Street, which Antalya residents call Işıklar.
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