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Destination Guide

Phellos Ancient City

Ancient LyciaFrom Kalkan 35 min

Phellos: The 850m Mountain Mother-City of Kaş

Perched 850 metres above sea level on the high Felen mountain ridge behind Kaş, Phellos is a tranquil, atmospheric Lycian mountain citadel located 32 km from Kalkan above the village of Çukurbağ.

Meaning 'stony place', Phellos served as the ancient fortified capital while Antiphellos (Kaş) was its humble seaside landing. When Roman maritime commerce flourished, residents relocated to the coast, leaving Phellos pristine, silent, and protected by nature.

Highlights

  • Bull and Siren Relief House Tomb: A masterpiece of Lycian funerary art, decorated with carved charging bulls and winged sirens beneath fragrant cedar boughs.
  • 850-Metre Mediterranean Panorama: The summit ridge commands a breathtaking eagle's-eye view across the Kaş peninsula, Kastellorizo (Meis), and coastal archipelagos.
  • Ancient Acropolis Ramparts: Intact polygonal limestone fortification walls and sentinel towers guarding the ancient pass.
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