Xanthos, which was the capital of Lycia between 700 and 300 BC, is known as the largest administrative centre of Lycia during antiquity. Letoon, which was Inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List together with Xanthos in 1988, was one of the most prominent religious centres of antiquity.
Xanthos (Arrina) is where Serpedon lived. Sarpedon encouraged Prince Hector during the Trojan War by writing a poem to him. The site is on the road between Fethiye and Kas, 46 km from Fethiye. It Is part of present-day Kinik village, on the Esen, a stream separating the provinces of Mugla and Antalya.
The archaeological value of Xanthos and Letoon make them very important parts of world heritage. The sites are about 4 km apart.
The original Lycian sarcophagi once situated just above the amphitheatre, and the original Harpy Tomb are In the British Museum.
The sanctuary of Leto was discovered in 1840. There are a six-row theatre, a basilica, Inscription tablets, three temples, a round portico attached to the cult building of the empire and an L shaped stoa. In the ancient city, there are three temples devoted to Leto and her twin sons. Leto's twins, Apollo and Artemis, were deities, and were honoured, like their mother, with a temple each.
The largest temple, devoted to the mother of Artemis and Apollo, is the Leto Temple built on the west side In perÃpteros style. It Is 30.25m by 15.75m. On the east side the Apollo Temple is in the Doric style and it is 27.90m by 15.07m.
The Apollo Temple looks exactly like the houses depicted In the Lycian tombs. The foundation remains are noteworthy since they have a timber structure. The lesser Artemis Temple Is situated between the other two temples. It Is 18.20m by 8.70m.
As water levels have risen since antiquity, the lower parts of the buildings are now under water.
Xantos with its spectacular theatre, structural ruins, mosaics, and the underground ruins waiting to be uncovered and Leton with its Leto, Apollon and Artemis temples, monastery, fountain, and Roman theatre ruins are waiting for their visitors to tell their tales. |
|
 |
