Telmessos Ancient City and Tomb of Amyntas

Telmessos Ancient City and Tomb of Amyntas

Telmessos, originally known as 'Telebehi' in the Lycian language, was the largest city in Lycia and a member of the Lycian Union. Today, the modern town of Fethiye occupies its site, boasting a well-protected harbor that is enclosed by an island, unlike the more exposed Fethiye Bay. Inscriptions reveal that Telmessos has been continuously inhabited since its inception.

Telmessos Ancient City and Tomb of Amyntas

The ruins of Telmessos, located near Fethiye, are among the most impressive historic attractions in the region. They include rock-hewn tombs and a 6,000-seat theatre that was built during the early Roman period and later restored in the 2nd century BC. Additionally, there is a museum located on the site.

The Lycian tombs are some of the most iconic features of Telmessos Ancient City. The most magnificent and famous is the tomb of King Amyntas (son of Hermagios) from the 4th century BC, which is adorned with two pillars engraved with the king's name in the Lycian language. As you approach the tomb, its grandeur becomes increasingly apparent.

To access the tomb, you must climb a staircase leading up the mountain. The staircase has many steps and may tire you out, but the effort is well worth it once you reach the top and behold the enormous tomb of Amintas, one of Turkey's most spectacular tombs.