Historic Sites

There are many places of interest within a relatively short distance of the blue lagoon villa, driving in turkey is great fun, but not for everyone.  If there is a large group (6+) it can be quite economical to hire a mini bus with driver, and plan you own excursion.  Alternatively call in at the Activities office opposite the post office in Hisaranu, and book an organised excursion.

Turkey is a country steeped in history. This bridge between Europe and Asia was controlled at different times by the Hittites, Greeks, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Selcuks and Ottomans. From about 2,800 until about 2,200 years ago the coastal region stretching east from what is now Fethiye was the kingdom of Lycia, and many important historical sites date to that period.

Fethiye is built upon the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos. Lycian tombs cut into the rock faces on the cliff sides around Fethiye have facades in the form of Greek temples

Historic Sites

and other buildings. Hellenic and Roman ruins are found dotted around the city. There are also the ruins of a Crusader castle on the hillside east of the city.

Tlos, about 10 miles (15 km) east of Fethiye, sits impressively upon a rocky outpost dominating the Xanthos valley. Artifacts indicate that the site was first occupied by the Hittites as early as 4,000 years ago. It was an important Lycian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman city.

Xanthos, about 20 miles (30 km) south of Tlos, was the ancient capital of Lycia. Patara, Lycia's chief port city and, according to legend, founded by Patarus, son of Apollo and the nymph Lycia, lies just to the south. Nearby Letoon was the primary religious center of Lycia. Ruins of three temples, believed to be dedicated to the gods Apollo, Artemis and their mother Latona, stand impressively there.