According to scientists, Tlos was the oldest city of Lycia. It is located 45 kilometres from Fethiye. According to the results of archaeological excavations it is believed that the founding of the city dates back to 2000 BC. For the first time the city of Tlos is mentioned in a Hittite chronicle from the 14th century BC. After the collapse the Hittite Empire, Tlos became one of the largest population centres in Lycia and afterwards became part of the Roman Empire.
Tlos is located in the east of the Xanthos Valley. At one time it was one of the of the six major cities of Lycia. At the time, Tlos was called "the most brilliant Metropolis of the Lycian Union", and the city was also the sporting centre of the Federation. Tlos was inhabited by Turks until the 19th century. The main attraction of the city is the acropolis. Over the course of its existence, the city has been influenced by different cultures to form an interesting variety of buildings. an interesting variety of structures.
Above the acropolis is the cemetery of Tlos, decorated with the most beautiful tombs of Lycia. The large tomb of Bellerophontes, with its three carved doors, is the the most prominent tomb. It is a tomb resembling a temple. a temple. One of the tomb doors is decorated with a relief depiction of the legendary of a legendary Greek hero riding Pegasus. The other door depicts a lion guarding guarding the entrance to the tomb. Legend has it that the hero was punished by the Lycian king. Iobates. And as punishment, he had to ride Pegasus, a gift from Athena. given by Athena, to the top of a mountain and kill the fire-breathing monster Chimera. Bellerophontes killed the monster and married the king's daughter. After that, his descendants ruled Lycia.
At the top of the acropolis of the city of Tlos is the castle of "Bloodthirsty Ali". The castle was built on the foundations of a Lycian fortress. From here you can enjoy a marvellous view of fields, orchards and mountains.
The Byzantine Basilica was built on the ruins of a Roman gymnasium and the city's baths. Inside the basilica are the Seven Gates, which overlook the valley. The amphitheatre is also preserved in Tlos, a monumental structure, which is decorated with intricate carvings on the walls. with intricate stone carvings. There are also the ruins of a stadium and a theatre, built in the 2nd century BC. The stage was almost completely destroyed, but 34 rows of seats for spectators have survived.
