At the intersection of the Aegean and the Mediterranean, Antiphellos, one of Turkey's most impressive ancient cities, takes you deep into history in the heart of the Kaş district. Known as one of the important port cities of the Lycian civilisation, Antiphellos today offers its visitors a unique experience with its natural beauties and rich cultural heritage. A must-discover for history buffs and nature lovers, this ancient city should be a priority on your discovery route with its ruins bearing traces of the life of the ancient world, magnificent sea views and hidden beauties around it.
Explore Antiphellos Ancient City in Turkey
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General Information About the Ancient City of Antiphellos
Antiphellos is the ancient name of the region known today as Kaş and has a long history dating back to the 5th century BC as one of the important cities of the Lycian Union. Thanks to its natural harbour, it was one of the key points of trade routes in ancient times and played an important role in both maritime trade and cultural interactions. The ancient city has seen an uninterrupted settlement from the Hellenistic period to the Roman and Byzantine periods, thus bearing the traces of different civilisations.
Historical and Cultural Background
The Lycian civilisation developed a unique culture and political structure in southwestern Anatolia. Antiphellos is known as the strong arm of this civilisation in maritime trade. The ancient city was of strategic importance both militarily and commercially, with its natural harbour and sheltered location. During the Roman period, the city was especially enriched and developed architecturally. Structures such as the ancient theatre, tombs and agora reveal the lifestyle and social structure of the period. Antiphellos is also famous for its rock tombs built in different periods; these tombs are one of the important parts of the burial rituals in Lycian culture.
Getting to Antiphellos
Antiphellos is located in the centre of the Kaş district today and is very easy to reach. If you are travelling from Antalya or Dalaman airports, you can reach Kas by private car, taxi or bus. It takes about 3-4 hours by land from Antalya to Kas, while it takes about 2.5 hours by car from Dalaman Airport. Once you reach the centre of Kaş, the ancient city area can be visited on foot or by short taxi rides within the district.
Places to See in Antiphellos
Among the buildings that attract attention in the ancient city area is the ancient theatre. Dating from the Roman period, this theatre is very well preserved and also has an impressive sea view. Excavations in the theatre offer important clues to understand the understanding of art and entertainment of the period. In addition, the Lycian rock tombs, especially the “Columned Tomb” and “King's Tombs”, are worth seeing both in terms of architecture and workmanship. The reliefs and inscriptions on the facades of the tombs reflect the social status and beliefs of the ancient period.
The Agora area was the economic and social centre of city life. There are areas where trade and public meetings were held. Ancient baths are also important for understanding the social life of the city. The remains of the harbour symbolise the former importance of Antiphellos in the Mediterranean trade.
Activities to do in Antiphellos
During your visit to the ancient city, in addition to exploring the historical buildings, you can take nature walks in the surroundings, walk along the coast and see the ruins of the ancient harbour. For photography enthusiasts, the view of the ancient theatre, especially during sunset, offers the opportunity to capture unique frames. Kaş is also famous for its diving tourism, where you can explore the rich underwater life of the Mediterranean with diving tours. During these dives, the proximity of the ancient city to the coastline gives you the chance to see historical ruins under the sea.
Nearby Attractions and Suggestions
After visiting Antiphellos, exploring the other historical and natural wonders of Kas will make your trip richer. The Ottoman-era buildings in the centre of Kas, the colourful bazaar, and the restaurants serving local delicacies give you a chance to get to know the cultural fabric of the region. Also nearby is the ancient city of Patara, home to Turkey's longest sandy beach and important Lycian ruins. Here you can both enjoy the sea and examine the ruins of the ancient period.
There are also natural wonders such as Saklikent Canyon around Kas. Ideal for cooling off and hiking in the summer months, this canyon is a popular destination for nature lovers. The Kekova region, with its underwater ruins and sunken cities, is an excellent destination for diving and boat tours. Exploring these places, along with a visit to Antiphellos, will give you a better understanding of the history and nature of the region.