Xanthos Ancient City (Kınık)

Xanthos, the capital of Lycia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its monumental tombs and rock-cut sarcophagi. The city is famous for the Harpy Tomb and the Nereid Monument, showcasing Lycian architecture and culture. Xanthos offers a glimpse into ancient funerary practices.

Letoon Sanctuary

Letoon is a sacred site of Lycia dedicated to the goddess Leto, with temples for her children, Apollo and Artemis. Recognized by UNESCO, this religious center reveals Lycian spirituality and mythology. Its preserved ruins showcase ancient inscriptions and temple architecture.

Patara Ancient City (Capital of Lycia)

Patara was once the capital of Lycia and is renowned for its parliament building, theater, and lighthouse. This ancient city near the Mediterranean also features Patara Beach, known as Apollo’s birthplace. Patara’s ruins reflect its historical role as a major Lycian trade hub.

Olympos Ancient City (Çıralı)

Olympos, located by the sea, combines natural beauty with ancient ruins, including a theater, necropolis, and aqueducts. Nearby, the eternal flames of Mount Chimera have burned for millennia, adding mythological allure. Olympos offers insights into Lycian culture and spirituality.

Myra Ancient City (Demre)

Known for its rock-cut tombs and Roman theater, Myra was the home of Saint Nicholas, the real-life inspiration for Santa Claus. Located in Demre, this city reveals Lycian funerary art and Greco-Roman influence. Myra’s ruins are both historical and religiously significant.

Tlos Ancient City

One of the oldest Lycian cities, Tlos is associated with the hero Bellerophon and his winged horse Pegasus. Its highlights include an acropolis, rock-cut tombs, and a large theater. The fortress atop Tlos offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley.

Simena Ancient City (Kaleköy)

Accessible only by boat, Simena offers half-sunken ruins, an ancient castle, and rock tombs. Located near Kekova Island, this coastal city provides unique insights into Lycian maritime life. Simena’s ruins, including its ancient theater, overlook a stunning bay.

Simena Castle

Perched above Kaleköy, Simena Castle offers breathtaking views over Kekova Bay. This Lycian fortress features an ancient theater and rock-carved tombs, illustrating the strategic importance of coastal defenses. Simena Castle combines scenic and historical value.

Kekova Sunken City

The submerged ruins around Kekova Island are the result of ancient earthquakes. Accessible via boat tours, the underwater structures showcase the remains of Lycian buildings and streets. The Kekova Sunken City is a unique blend of history and marine beauty.

Andriake Ancient Port

Andriake was an important Lycian port known for its granary and harbor structures. Now home to the Lycian Civilizations Museum, Andriake reveals the region’s maritime history. The port’s warehouses and artifacts reflect Lycia’s role in ancient trade.

Pinara Ancient City

Pinara is built on a mountainside and is known for its thousands of round tombs, theater, and temples. A spiritual center for the Lycians, Pinara’s impressive ruins offer both natural and historical beauty. This site is ideal for exploring Lycian religious practices.

Antiphellos Ancient City (Kaş)

Located in modern-day Kaş, Antiphellos was an essential Lycian trading port with a well-preserved theater and rock tombs. The city’s location on the Mediterranean made it a strategic coastal hub. Antiphellos reflects the commercial history of Lycia.

Lions Tomb (Aslanlı Lahit, Kaş)

The Lions Tomb in Kaş, a Lycian sarcophagus, is a symbol of the town. Its lion reliefs and intricate carvings are fine examples of Lycian craftsmanship and funerary customs. This monument highlights the artistic skills of ancient Lycians.

Amintas Rock Tombs

Located in Fethiye, the Amintas Rock Tombs were carved into cliffs in the 4th century BC. These monumental tombs reflect Lycian royalty and their elaborate burial customs. The view from the tombs over Fethiye is stunning, adding to their appeal.

Antiphellos Theater

With a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, Antiphellos Theater in Kaş offers both scenic beauty and historical significance. The well-preserved Lycian theater is still used for cultural events today. It’s a great spot to experience ancient Lycia.

Sidyma Ancient City

Sidyma is a lesser-known Lycian site with rock-cut tombs and stone structures. This mountain settlement provides insights into Lycian rural life. Sidyma is a peaceful and scenic place for exploring lesser-known Lycian heritage.

Phellos Ancient City

Located on a high plateau near Kaş, Phellos is famous for its rock tombs and city walls. It’s one of Lycia’s best-preserved fortified sites, offering historical and natural beauty in a secluded setting.

Arykanda Ancient City

Located near Finike, Arykanda features a theater, baths, agora, and stadium. Built on a mountainside, Arykanda showcases Lycian urban planning and architecture. Its scenic location adds to its historical charm.

Limyra Ancient City (Zemuri)

Limyra, known for its rock-cut tombs and aqueducts, was an important Lycian city. The Roman bridge and other structures reveal the blend of Lycian and Roman influences. Limyra offers archaeological and scenic interest.

Üçağız (Theimussa)

Üçağız is a small village near Kekova with ancient Lycian tombs and sarcophagi. It serves as the entry point to the Kekova region, offering a blend of natural and historical attractions. Üçağız is peaceful, with easy access to the ruins.

St. Nicholas Church

Located in Demre, St. Nicholas Church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. This pilgrimage site reveals early Christian architecture and mosaics, offering a spiritual and historical experience.