Tlos Ancient City, one of the most important historical heritages around Fethiye, dates back to BC. It is referred to as Dlawa in Hittite sources around 1400, and as Tlawa in Lycian inscriptions. With its 4000-year history, Tlos is one of the most interesting archaeological riches of Anatolia.
History and features of the ancient city of Tlos
Tlos, one of the important cities of the Lycians, who ruled the Fethiye region for a long time, is a city located on the main transportation network of the Lycian civilization. The city was named after Tloos, the son of Praxidike and Tremilus, who were mythological characters. The names of Tloss' other brothers are Xanthos, Pinaros and Kragos. The city, which is the meeting point of 7 roads, has taken the title of metropolis, that is, a big city, probably due to the large population it contains. Tlos is one of the 6 important cities of Lycia. Other important Lycian cities are Patara, Myra, Xanthos, Pinara and Myra.
The city is geographically located in a very sheltered area and encompasses a large and complex archaeological area containing structures from the Lycian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
It's like straight out of a Conan the Barbarian movie
One of the most remarkable structures of the Tlos Ancient City, the acropolis is located at the highest point of the city and has an impressive appearance as if it were out of Conan the Barbarian movies. There are important structures such as ancient theatre, temples, cisterns and rock tombs around the acropolis. In particular, the Lycian rock tombs are among the structures that have become the symbols of the region and attract the attention of visitors. Located in the south of the ancient city, the stadium is considered to be one of the largest sports and entertainment centers of its time, with a seating capacity of approximately 2500 people. In addition, there are structures such as baths, churches and city walls from various periods in the region.
The tomb of Bellerophontes, owner of the winged horse Pegasus, is also here
One of the tombs in Tlos is particularly important. This tomb is the tomb of Bellerophontes, the owner of the winged horse Pegasus. The battle of Pegasus and Bellerophontes with the three-headed monster Chimera is depicted on the tomb. This magnificent tomb is on the titan rock on the north side of the Acropolis. Bellerophontes, the son of Glaukos, king of Corinth, and grandson of Sisyphus, is one of the most handsome and brave characters of mythology. Before coming to Tlos, we recommend that you learn about this important character and his horse Pegasus.
How to get to Tlos and visit information
The ancient city of Tlos is located within the borders of Yaka Village of Seydikemer district, approximately 40 km from Fethiye center. It is also 8 km from Saklikent Canyon. You can use a private car to reach Tlos from Fethiye, or you can reach Yaka Village with regular buses/minibuses and reach the ancient city with a walk of approximately 4 km from here.
There is an entrance fee to Tlos Ancient City and the Museum Card is valid
Visiting hours are determined as 08:00-19:00 in the summer period (April-October) and 08:30-17:30 in the winter period (October-April). It is recommended to spend at least 2-3 hours to see the structures and impressive views in the ancient city.
Tips for visiting Tlos
If you are planning to visit Tlos Ancient City, the following tips may be helpful:
- Have sun protection equipment such as walking shoes and a hat. Thorns can be painful.
- Bring water and snacks with you as food and beverage outlets are limited in the area.
- After visiting the ancient city, you can enjoy local delicacies in Yaka village.
- You can also consider visiting other historical sites and natural beauties (such as Saklikent Canyon and Yakapark/Waterfall) in the vicinity of Tlos.