Xanthos and Letoon are two of the most significant archaeological sites in Turkey and were jointly declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. These ancient cities tell the story of Lycia — a unique culture that left behind stunning tombs, temples, and inscriptions.
Xanthos was the capital city of Lycia and one of its most powerful city-states. It gained notoriety in antiquity for two mass suicides by its citizens — first during the Persian invasion, and again in 42 BC when Brutus attacked the city during Rome's civil war.
Highlights of Xanthos include:
The Harpy Tomb: A 5th-century BC pillar tomb adorned with mythical winged female creatures (replicas at the site; originals in the British Museum).
The Nereid Monument: An ornate Lycian tomb inspired by Greek architecture, also housed in the British Museum.
The Xanthian Obelisk: A towering monument covered in Greek and Lycian inscriptions — key to decoding the Lycian language.
Roman Amphitheatre: Dating to the 2nd century AD, partially preserved with excellent valley views.
Agora & Byzantine Basilica: Remains of a bustling Roman-Byzantine street lined with shops and a later Christian basilica.
Temple ruins & rock-cut tombs: Carved into the surrounding hillsides, showcasing Lycian burial customs.
Just 4 km from Xanthos lies Letoon, the spiritual and ceremonial centre of Lycia. It was here that the Lycian League held annual gatherings, and where the cult of Leto, mother of Apollo and Artemis, flourished.
Highlights of Letoon include:
Temple of Leto: One of the best-preserved Greek temples in Turkey, built in the 5th century BC with an Ionic colonnade and marble-like limestone blocks.
Temple of Apollo: Smaller and Doric in style, featuring a unique floor mosaic of Apollo’s symbols — lyre, bow and arrow.
Temple of Artemis: Compact and finely built, dating to the 4th century BC.
Hellenistic Nymphaeum & Sacred Spring: Used for ritual ceremonies, enhanced by Romans with a semi-circular pool.
Letoon Theatre: A well-preserved Hellenistic theatre used for sacred performances, with carved rock seating and decorative reliefs.
Byzantine Church Remains: 6th-century structure with mosaic floors and archaeological finds suggesting a monastic community.
Distance from Kalkan: ~1 hour by car
Ticket: A single entry usually covers both sites
Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for ideal weather
What to bring: Water, comfortable shoes, sun protection
Xanthos and Letoon offer a powerful connection to the ancient world, from mythical gods to revolutionary political systems. These sites are essential for history lovers exploring the Lycian Coast.