Tlos was one of the major cities of ancient Lycia, known for its fortress-like acropolis and impressive rock-cut tombs. It is closely associated with the mythological hero Bellerophon, whose tomb is believed to be located here.
Tlos was an ancient Lycian city located near the modern town of Seydikemer in the Muğla Province of southern Turkey. It is one of the oldest and largest cities of Lycia, situated on the eastern side of the Xanthos Valley, atop a rocky outcrop that dramatically slopes up from a plateau. The city was strategically placed, surrounded by cliffs to the west, north, and northeast.
Archaeological findings in Tlos and nearby sites (such as the Girmeler and Tavabaşı caves) suggest that the foundation of the city dates back over 4,000 years. The city fell under Persian control when Harpagus invaded Lycia in 540 BC, ending its independence. During the Persian rule, from the 5th to late 4th century BC, Tlos prospered. In the Hellenistic period, it became one of the six principal cities of the Lycian League, and in 168 BC, Rome granted the city autonomy, freeing it from dependence on Rhodes.
Excavations at Tlos, which began in 2005, have revealed a mixture of cultural influences in its architecture, including Lycian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine. The city was dominated by an acropolis and a fortress, while its settlement was concentrated on the southern and western slopes. Key archaeological remains include a theater, agora, Roman baths, an early Byzantine church, and a stadium that could seat around 2,500 people.
One of the most famous landmarks is the Tomb of Bellerophon, believed to be the family tomb of Tlos’s royal dynasties. According to Greek mythology, Bellerophon was sent by the Lycian king Iobates to slay the Chimera, a fearsome fire-breathing creature.
Today, Tlos stands as an important archaeological site, showcasing the rich history of the Lycian civilization and its interactions with other cultures over millennia.
Tlos is located near Seydikemer in Muğla Province, about 42 kilometers from Fethiye. You can take a minibus from Fethiye to Seydikemer, and then hire a taxi for the remaining 10 kilometers to Tlos. If you’re driving, head along the D400 highway from Fethiye towards Seydikemer, and follow the signs for Tlos. The journey takes about 45 minutes by car.
You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Tlos. These close-by attractions offer further insight into the rich history of the region and are easily accessible for visitors wanting to extend their journey: