Lycian Way History & Historic Sites

In the next series of blogs we will be looking at the main stops on The Lycian Way route. Discussing Lycian Way history and some of the historic sites you will experience. We start with Fethiye.

Lycian Way History Fethiye; 

Fethiye is a city on the south west coast of Türkiye in Mugla Province. It has a population of over 200, 000 people. The current name ‘Fethiye’ comes from ‘Yusbasi Fethi Bey’ one of the first pilots of the Ottoman Airforce. It was named in 1934, before which it was named Makri

In ancient times it was known as Telmessos, the largest city in Lycia. Telmessos was a member of the Delian League in the 5th century BC. It was captured by Alexander the Great in 334 BC.

The most famous ancient site in Fethiye is ‘The Tomb of Amyntas’ or Kings Tomb located on the mountainside behind the harbour and Fethiye Castle. This impressive Lycian monument was built in 350 B.C. and was named after the Greek inscription on the side of it “Amyntou tou Ermagiou”, which translated means “Amyntas, son of Hermagios”.

There are Lycian Tombs spread around the city as there are in much of the region. They are built from local limestone. The carved stonework imitates the construction of wooden buildings.

Located in the centre of Fethiye is the local Museum. Detailing lots of
Lycian Way history, it is well worth a visit. There is collections of artifacts from local shipwrecks in the region. Including gold and silver coins. There are also statues from ancient Lycian and Roman cities such as Cadianda, Tlos and Pinara. Lycian Tombs and many other fascinating objects.

Further reading :

https://www.livius.org/articles/place/telmessus-fethiye/ https://www.britannica.com/place/Fethiye

Would you like more information about Lycian Way history or our Lycian Way holidays? You can get in touch with us here or via the green button below.

We look forward to hearing from you.