XANTHOS AND LETOON

Xanthos was the capital city of the Lycian Federation and was its greatest city throughout Lycian history. It became famous in the 19th century when it was discovered by British explorer Charles Fellows.

Dating back to the 8th century BC, although it is possible that the site may have existed during the Bronze Age or during the first centuries of the Iron Age, Xanthos is located near to the village of Kınık, on a hillside overlooking the Eşen River. From this elevation there is a wonderful view of the Xanthos Valley, surrounded by the spectacular Taurus Mountains.

The history of Xanthos is quite a violent one. The people who lived there twice demonstrated the fierce independence of the Lycian people when they chose to commit mass suicide rather than submit to invading forces. The men set alight their women, children, slaves and treasure upon the acropolis before making their final doomed attack upon the invading Persians.

Xanthos was later re-inhabited but the same macabre story repeated itself in 42 BC when Brutus attacked the city during the Roman civil wars. However it is said that Brutus was so shocked by the Lycians’ suicide that he offered his soldiers a reward for each person saved. Only 150 citizens were rescued.

Letoon lies approximately four kilometres south of Xanthos, along the Xanthos River. It was never a fully occupied settlement, instead it is thought to have been a religious centre, which dates back to the late sixth century BC.

Xanthos and Letoon are easy to travel to by car, located just off the main highway and well-marked. The landscape is quite beautiful, particularly in spring.  Both are also not far from Patara, so any excursion from Fethiye can easily be combined with a trip to the beach.