Antiphellos · Kaş

Antiphellos lives on beneath and between the streets of modern Kaş, so exploring it feels like a stroll through town. Its Hellenistic theatre faces the open sea and the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo), and is one of Kaş’s favourite sunset spots. Lycian rock tombs are cut into the cliffs above, while the famous Lion Tomb rises on a bougainvillea-draped shopping street. Most remains are free and open to wander.

History

Known in Lycian as Habesa, Antiphellos began as the harbour of the mountain city of Phellos. By the Hellenistic period the port had outgrown its parent, and in Roman times it was the leading settlement of the area. Lycian inscriptions, rock tombs and sarcophagi reflect its vitality in the 4th century BC, while the theatre belongs to the Hellenistic age. After Byzantine times the town shrank, and modern Kaş later grew up over the ancient remains.

Don’t miss

1. Hellenistic theatre overlooking the sea and Meis
2. Rock-cut Doric Tomb near the theatre
3. Lion Tomb (Kral Mezarı) on Uzun Çarşı
4. Lycian rock tombs in the cliffs above town
5. Sunset views from the theatre steps