In the southwest of Turkey, on the coast of the so-called Turkish Riviera, lies a region that preserves deep traces of an ancient civilization - the Lycians. This nation, once known for its advanced democracy, has left behind an unusual legacy that speaks volumes for death: spectacular necropolises and breathtakingly carved sarcophagi.
To travel between the past and the present
If you travel through this picturesque region of the Mediterranean, you will often come across burial monuments nestled among the modern landscape. Some are preserved in paid archaeological sites, while others are hidden in nature and you have to be Indiana Jones to discover them.
An ideal starting point is the port city of Fethiye, known in ancient times as Telmessos. Above this town, on a rocky slope, are the rock tombs of Aminthas, built in the 4th century BC. For a nominal fee of 3 euros, you can climb the stairs that lead to the entrance to the main center of the tombs, decorated with columns in Greek style. The tombs are empty, plundered for centuries, but the magnificent view they offer towards the Aegean Sea is reward enough for visitors.
A mystery that hangs in the air
The Lycians were masters of burial. From rock tombs to pillared sarcophagi, each monument seems to convey a desire to be closer to heaven. But what does this rise symbolize? Archaeologists, such as Professor Catherine Draycott from Durham University, say this remains a mystery. "There is a lot of speculation about their death rites," says Draycott. "Visibility was desired - not only to be on a road, but to be seen from a distance. Why? We don't know."
Eternal heritage in the midst of modernity
In cities such as Kaş or Demre, history and modern life intertwine in an unusual way. In the center of Kaş, a sarcophagus stands in the middle of a traffic circle, while in the village of Kaleüçağız, graves have become a common decoration for parking lots.
If you're up for an adventure, climbing the hills above Kaş offers an unforgettable experience. A group of tombs hidden behind flowering bushes offer an amazing panorama of the Aegean, especially at sunset.
A quiet journey between history and nature
Between Kaş and Demre, the village of Kaleüçağiz is another treasure for explorers. In addition to boat excursions to the sunken city of Theimussa, a short walk leads to the magnificent sarcophagi nestled between the huge cliffs and the calm shore. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely swim under the shadow of these ancient monuments.
Invitation to explorers
The Lycians may have been mysterious, but their legacy is an open invitation to those who want to discover the beauties and hidden histories of this part of Turkey. From towering rock tombs to sarcophagi left in the middle of the road, every step in this land is a journey through time. (A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
MUND TE LEXONI GJITHASHTU
