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Destination Guide
Ancient Maritime Harbour of Aperlai
Ancient LyciaFrom Kalkan 40 min (Boat)
Aperlai: The Royal Purple Dye Capital and Submerged Breakwaters
Hidden along the tranquil, roadless shores of Asar Bay on the Sıçak Peninsula between Kaş and Kekova, Aperlai is a remote archaeological jewel celebrated for its untouched natural beauty, partially sunken quays, and ancient role as the Mediterranean's leading supplier of Imperial Tyrian purple dye.
Aperlai headed an ancient four-city federation alongside Simena, Apollonia, and Isinda. With no vehicular roads, the site remains exceptionally peaceful, visited primarily by Lycian Way hikers and private boats.
Historical and Natural Significance
- Murex Purple Dye Production: The supreme status symbol of Roman emperors and senators—Tyrian purple—was laboriously extracted here from *Murex* sea snails. Heaps of ancient crushed shells, vats, and workshop foundations remain visible along the shore.
- Snorkelling Over Sunken Breakwaters: Tectonic subsidence has left ancient quays, storehouses, and sarcophagus bases submerged in waist-deep clear water, ideal for exploring with mask and snorkel.
- Hillside Sarcophagus Field: Climbing through wild olive and carob trees toward the upper acropolis reveals dozens of monumental stone sarcophagi carrying archaic Lycian inscriptions.