# Tlos (Tlos Antik Kenti) — Ancient Hilltop City and the Home of Pegasus
The ancient Lycian city of Tlos on a hilltop, featuring unique rock tombs, ruins of a Roman theater, and the Ottoman fortress of Bloody Ali-Agha.
The ancient city of Tlos, situated on a high rocky hill overlooking the Xanthos Valley, is a breathtaking site with a multi-layered history. Unlike many other ancient towns in the region, Tlos remained inhabited until the 19th century. This has resulted in a fascinating blend of Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. According to Greek mythology, Tlos was the home of the hero Bellerophon, famous for taming the winged horse Pegasus.
The dominant landmark of Tlos is the acropolis. At its summit stand the ruins of a 19th-century Ottoman fort built by local feudal lord Ali-Agha on the foundations of the ancient Lycian citadel. The slopes below are honeycombed with rock-cut tombs, the most famous being the Tomb of Bellerophon, which features a relief depicting the hero riding Pegasus. At the foot of the hill lie the ruins of a stadium, large Roman baths with high arched windows, a Byzantine basilica, and a partially restored theater. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Practical Information
- Location: 36 km east of Fethiye, near Yakaköy village
- Road: Asphalt (good quality paved roads, though winding and mountainous as you approach the site)
- Infrastructure: Ticket office, toilets, small parking area at the entrance. Several local cafes and restaurants are located in the nearby village
- Entrance: Paid (approx. 3 EUR / 100-110 TL, Turkish Museum Card / Müze Kart is valid)
- Tip: Wear sturdy sports or hiking shoes, as exploring the vast site and climbing up to the acropolis tombs requires traversing uneven, rocky terrain. Combining a visit here with Saklikent Canyon and Yakapark makes a great day trip.