Explore Xanthos: Ancient Capital of Lycia and Site of a Tragic Stand for Freedom

The Ancient City of Xanthos

The history of Xanthos stretches back to the 8th century BCE. Once known as Arnna in Lycian inscriptions, it served as the administrative heart of the Lycian League—a famously democratic federation of city-states. Even Homer is believed to have referenced Xanthos in connection with the Trojan War.

Situated between Fethiye and Kaş, the ancient site lies just 30 minutes from Kaş and Kalkan, near the village of Kınık, and about 50 minutes from Fethiye. Though once a coastal settlement accessible by ship, the ruins now rest about 8 kilometres inland.

Xanthos was first brought to wider attention by Charles Fellows in 1838. After visiting the site, he removed many reliefs and artefacts, transporting them to Patara Harbour and eventually to London. Today, many of these treasures are housed in the British Museum's Lycian collection.

A Centre of Lycian Power

As the capital of Lycia, Xanthos played a central role in the region’s political and cultural life. While the Lycian League's parliament was reportedly in Patara, Xanthos served as its administrative capital. Letoon, located nearby, was the League’s religious centre.

Xanthos flourished in the 2nd century BCE and was highly valued for its strategic location. It witnessed multiple invasions over the centuries—from the Persians in the 6th century BCE, to the Athenians under Cimon, and later the Romans under Brutus in the 1st century BCE. These invasions brought great destruction to the city.

What to See in Xanthos

Visitors to Xanthos will discover a range of well-preserved ruins. The acropolis is surrounded by ancient defensive walls. Steles and rock-cut tombs from the Lycian period are among the most significant finds in the region. You’ll also find Anatolia’s best-preserved stone-paved street here.

To the north of the Lycian acropolis lies the Roman theatre, and to its west, some of Xanthos’s most fascinating remnants:

• A family tomb atop a towering monolith
• The renowned Harpy reliefs—believed to depict winged creatures guiding souls to the afterlife
• A Lycian sarcophagus
• The remains of the Roman agora

After Alexander the Great conquered Xanthos, the Lycian language and culture began to fade. Greek became the city’s official language, and Patara was elevated as the region’s main city.

The Tragic Story That Made Xanthos Famous

Xanthos is best known for a deeply moving historical episode often called “The Most Tragic Declaration of Independence.”

In 545 BCE, the Persian army laid siege to the city. As their defence weakened, the citizens of Xanthos chose death over surrender. They gathered their women, children, slaves, and possessions inside the city walls and set everything ablaze to prevent capture. The men then charged into battle and were ultimately killed. The entire population was wiped out in an act of defiant sacrifice.

A similar event occurred centuries later during the Roman invasion led by Brutus in 42 BCE. These acts of resistance left a lasting impression, turning Xanthos into a symbol of unwavering devotion to freedom.

Getting to Xanthos

Xanthos is easily accessible by public transport, with minibuses running between Fethiye and Kaş. If you’re driving, follow the D400 highway from Antalya. The site is also reachable via the scenic coastal road from Kemer or Finike.

Xanthos Visitor Information

Address: Kınık Köyü, Kaş, Antalya
Telephone: +90 (242) 238 56 88
Fax: +90 (242) 238 56 87

Opening Hours:

• Summer (15 April – 2 October): 08:30 – 19:30
• Winter (3 October – 14 April): 08:30 – 17:30
• Religious Holidays: Open until noon on the first day

Entry Fee: 14 TL