Antiphellos Ancient City – Interesting Details About the City

Antiphellos Ancient City, also known as Kaş Archaeological Site, is located in today’s Kaş district of Antalya province in Turkey. The history of this ancient city dates back to the Lycian period between the 6th and 4th centuries BC. In this article, we have compiled some interesting details to get to know this ancient city better.

Get information that is not mentioned anywhere by examining this list, which is a guide for history and antiquity lovers.

Historical Significance

Antiphellos was one of the most important cities in the Lycian League, an ancient federation of Lycian cities. The city was also known for its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, which made it an important center for maritime trade.

The Amphitheater

One of the most prominent features of Antiphellos is its amphitheater, which was carved into the rocky hillside overlooking the sea. The amphitheater was built in the Hellenistic period and could seat up to 4,000 people.

The Necropolis

Antiphellos also has an extensive necropolis, or burial ground, which contains a variety of tombs and sarcophagi. The most impressive tombs are the rock-cut tombs that are carved into the cliffs overlooking the sea.

The Harbor

Antiphellos also had a well-protected harbor that was used for trade and commerce. The harbor is still visible today and is a popular spot for tourists to visit.

The Agora

The city’s agora, or marketplace, was located in the center of the city and was surrounded by shops, public buildings, and temples. The agora was an important gathering place for the city’s inhabitants.

The Acropolis

The Acropolis was the highest point in the city and was fortified with walls and towers. The Acropolis was the last line of defense in case of an attack.

The Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo was one of the most important religious buildings in Antiphellos. The temple was built in the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the god of the sun, Apollo.

The Hellenistic Wall

Antiphellos was surrounded by a defensive wall that was built during the Hellenistic period. The wall was made of large, irregular stones and was reinforced with towers and bastions. Visitors can still see parts of the wall today.

The Byzantine Period

After the decline of the Lycian League, Antiphellos came under the control of the Byzantine Empire. During this period, the city continued to thrive as an important center of trade and commerce.

The Ottoman Period

In the 15th century, Antiphellos came under Ottoman rule. The city’s harbor was used as a base for the Ottoman navy, and the city continued to be an important center for trade and commerce.

The Rediscovery of Antiphellos

Antiphellos was largely forgotten after the decline of the Ottoman Empire. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the city was rediscovered by European travelers and archaeologists. Today, Antiphellos is a popular destination for tourists interested in ancient history and archaeology.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Antiphellos, along with other ancient cities in the Lycian region, has been nominated to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The nomination is based on the exceptional cultural value of the Lycian civilization, which left behind a unique legacy of art, architecture, and mythology.

In conclusion, Antiphellos Antik Kenti is a fascinating site that provides a window into the ancient Lycian civilization. From its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast to its impressive amphitheater, necropolis, and other cultural and historical features, Antiphellos offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of this remarkable city.

Antalya to Ancient City Kas Transportation

There are many options for transportation from Antalya center to Kaş Ancient City. The average journey time with your private vehicle is 3 hours and the route is 186 km.

You can provide comfortable transportation by choosing the one that suits you from the following vehicle options in our company.

Social Media