About Tlos
On the western slopes of the Akdağ mountains, Tlos is one of Lycia's longest-lived settlements, with rock-cut tombs, a theatre and stadium plain. An Ottoman fortress crowns an acropolis layered with Lycian, Roman and Byzantine remains.
History
Known as Tlawa in Lycian sources, Tlos has a history extending into the Bronze Age. It was a major Lycian League city entitled to three votes. Roman expansion centred on the theatre, stadium, baths and agora, reflecting the importance of sport and public life. It became a bishopric in late antiquity and acquired basilicas. The acropolis retained a defensive role in medieval and Ottoman times; the fortress associated with Kanlı Ali Ağa shapes today's skyline.
Highlights and principal structures
- Bellerophon rock tomb
- Acropolis and Ottoman fortress
- Theatre
- Stadium and palaestra
- Temple of Kronos
- Roman baths
- Basilica
Historical period
Classical–Roman–Byzantine