Hadrian's Gate

The Hadrian’s Gate is a triumphal arch and a historic ruin located on the Ataturk Boulevard in Antalya. It is the only remaining entrance gate in the walls surrounding the city and harbour. It is named the Triple gate due to three archways standing gallantly on four large vertical pillars. It is also the entrance to Kaleici’s beautiful historic quarter filled with houses, restaurants, and shopping outlets.

Established in 130 A.D, the Hadrian's Gate was built in honour of Roman Emperor Hadrian and was rediscovered in 1817 by Francis Beaufort. It is believed that the queen of Sheba passed through the middle arch on her way to Aspendos and spent a happy night with King Salomon. The gigantic architecture resembles a two-storied building with Pentelic marble and granite pillars. The two towers embracing each side of the Triple Gate are built at different times. The northern tower was built much later in 13 century A.D. with inscribed Arabic scriptures, and the southern pillar, also called the Tower of Julia Sancta, was established in the Roman era. The typical roman triumphal arch exhibits intricate floral motifs and rosettes. In addition, it has barrel vaults on the archways, a cornice representing the heads of the lions, and an entablature on the top of the gates. Visitors can spend some peaceful time at the park benches outside, under the architectural grandeur of Hadrian's Gate. It can be reached on foot or by tram. The tram line, called Nostalji tramway, runs right by the monument, and the stop is fittingly called Hadrid.