Ancient City of Xanthos
Ancient City of Xanthos
Kültür - Müze - Sanat - Tarih
Ancient City of Xanthos
Ancient City of Xanthos
If the stones of a city carry both civilization and heroism, that city is Xanthos. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient city was the capital of Lycia, with monumental tombs, inscribed pillars, temple remains, and a magnificent theater. Among its most notable structures are the Harpy Monument, Lycian inscriptions, and the Roman theater. Spread across a wide natural landscape, every stone and column in the site stands as a silent witness to history.
From the 7th century BC onwards, Xanthos became one of the most important political and cultural centers of Lycia. Ancient sources commemorate the city for its resistance against the Persian invasion and the self-sacrifice of its people, marking it as a tale of heroism. Rebuilt during the Roman period, it later became a bishopric in the Christian era. Many of its artifacts were discovered in the 19th century by British archaeologist Charles Fellows and are now displayed in the British Museum.
Viofun’s Recommendation
Stand for a few minutes before the Harpy Monument and silently gaze at the reliefs pointing upward. If your eyes can read history, Xanthos will tell you not just of a city, but of a story of resistance. Afterwards, head to Patara Beach to watch the sunset under the shadow of Lycia.
If the stones of a city carry both civilization and heroism, that city is Xanthos. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient city was the capital of Lycia, with monumental tombs, inscribed pillars, temple remains, and a magnificent theater. Among its most notable structures are the Harpy Monument, Lycian inscriptions, and the Roman theater. Spread across a wide natural landscape, every stone and column in the site stands as a silent witness to history.
From the 7th century BC onwards, Xanthos became one of the most important political and cultural centers of Lycia. Ancient sources commemorate the city for its resistance against the Persian invasion and the self-sacrifice of its people, marking it as a tale of heroism. Rebuilt during the Roman period, it later became a bishopric in the Christian era. Many of its artifacts were discovered in the 19th century by British archaeologist Charles Fellows and are now displayed in the British Museum.
Viofun’s Recommendation
Stand for a few minutes before the Harpy Monument and silently gaze at the reliefs pointing upward. If your eyes can read history, Xanthos will tell you not just of a city, but of a story of resistance. Afterwards, head to Patara Beach to watch the sunset under the shadow of Lycia.
By Bus
Take the Antalya–Fethiye buses and get off at Kınık.
From the bus stop, you can reach the site either on foot or with a short car ride.
By Minibus
From Kaş, Kalkan, or Fethiye, minibuses go to Kınık, from where you can walk to the site.
During the summer season, services are frequent.
By Taxi
From Kalkan or Kaş town centers, the site can be reached in 15–20 minutes.
Parking is available at the site entrance.
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