Tlos

Tlos, an ancient Lycian city nestled in the mountainous regions of southwestern Turkey, is a captivating archaeological site steeped in history and myth. Once a powerful and influential city within the Lycian Federation, Tlos dates back to at least the 2nd millennium BC, making it one of the oldest and continuously inhabited Lycian cities until the 19th century.

The ruins of Tlos sprawl across the hilltop, featuring a fascinating blend of Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. The site is renowned for its impressive necropolis, where the distinctive Lycian house-type tombs are carved directly into the rocky hillsides. Among these, the grandiose tomb of the Lycian hero Bellerophon, with reliefs depicting him and his mythical winged horse Pegasus, is a highlight.

Visitors to Tlos can explore the remnants of a Roman-era stadium and bath complex, a large theatre, and an acropolis with a fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The acropolis itself is a testament to the city's strategic importance, with evidence of fortifications from multiple periods.

Tlos also has a unique place in mythology. It is said to be the home of the mythological figure Bellerophon, and the city's rich past is imbued with tales of gods and warriors that add a mystical allure to the site.