Kas was founded on Antiphellos City was one of the important port cities of the Lycian Civilization. It was established as the port of the ancient city of Phellos, close to the Çukurbağ village, but through time it became a rich city with cedar tree trade and separated from Phellos.
Remains from the ancient city can be seen scattered in the center of Kaş. Unfortunately, the ruins other than the ancient theater have been left alone.
The Ancient Theater
The Ancient theater is the only theater in Anatolia built facing the sea. The theater, which belongs to the Hellenistic period, is made of local cut limestone of the region and had a capacity of 3000 people. The theater, which was restored in 2008, is a great spot to watch the sunset.
It is understood from the tombs of different periods that the theater is surrounded by a necropolis. Close to the ancient theater, a dor-type tomb carved into the bedrock draws attention. There is no other example in Lycia of female figures holding hands in the tomb called Akdam Dor Tomb. The decorations are covered with soot from the fire that was lit inside and are not currently visible.
Sarcophagi
The King’s Tomb at the entrance of the Long Bazaar is one of the most intact sarcophagi to date. In fact, it is not
known whether it belongs to a king or not, it took this name because of the lion heads on it. There are three more solid sarcophagi Kas center, in the market place, and at the entrance of the port on the sea side of the gendarmerie building. Some sarcophagus lids are scattered around Kas and seen in many places.
When you look towards the rocky hill behind Kaş (sleeping giant), you can see two ancient rock tombs. These tombs belonging to the early period of Antiphellos can also be seen on a street behind the square and in front of the coast guard.
The water systems of Lycian ancient cities are based on cisterns. Only two of Antiphellos’ many cisterns from the Hellenistic and Roman periods have survived. The cistern next to the Echo Bar in Kaş Harbor was illuminated and opened to visitors. 7 columns carry the roof of the cistern made by carving the bedrock. It can be visited for free.
Andifli, 07580 Kaş/Antalya, Turkey