Sidetic Unicode Script

Sidetic is a lesser-known ancient writing system that belongs to the Indo-European family of scripts and is specifically associated with the ancient region of Side, located on the southern coast of what is now modern-day Turkey. It is thought to have been used around the 5th to 3rd centuries BCE. The language encapsulated by the Sidetic script is thought to have been a distinct Anatolian language, possibly closely related to the nearby Pisidian and Lycian languages, which also belong to the Anatolian branch of the Indo-European language family. The script itself, while not entirely deciphered, offers significant historical insights into the linguistics and culture of the ancient Sideans. The existing corpus of Sidetic inscriptions is relatively small and largely comprises coin legends, a few short inscriptions, and graffiti, limiting scholars’ ability to fully comprehend the language and its script.

The Sidetic script demonstrates a unique combination of indigenous and external influences. It showcases a distinctive set of characters that differentiate it from closely associated scripts of the time, yet parallels some elements found in Greek scripts, given the historical Hellenistic influences on the region. Despite its ancient origins, efforts have been made to document and study Sidetic further, offering glimpses into the exchange of linguistic and cultural practices within the Anatolian region. In recent times, the inclusion of the Sidetic script in Unicode character sets signifies a step forward in digital preservation, thus supporting ongoing academic research and providing more extensive access to specialists and enthusiasts interested in this enigmatic script from antiquity.

Below you will find all the characters that are in the 'Sidetic' unicode script category. Currently there are 26 characters in this category.