Hiking on The Lycian Way Route

The Lycian Way route is named after the ancient Lycia region and it’s people. As a result, many relics of the Lycian people remain visible today. When hiking on The Lycian Way route you will see many of these ancient sites and remains.

In this blog we will look at the most common remains. These are The Lycian rock tombs and sarcophagi on The Lycian Way route. They Date from the 4^th Century BC. The Lycian tombs are a feature of the route and provide a wonderful connection to ancient history.

The Sarcophagi are built from local limestone. The carved stonework imitates the construction of wooden buildings. You will see many on The Lycian Way route.  Because they are stand-alone structures dotted around the region. Considering their age many are wonderfully well preserved. Some of the best examples are situated at the ancient site of Sidyma.

Carved into the sides of local hills and mountains, the Lycian Tombs make very impressive sites. It is understood that the tombs were built into the side of a mountains so that ancient angels could reach the dead.

Good examples of Tombs can be seen at Myra. Perhaps the largest tomb is located in Fethiye. Named ‘The Tomb of Amyntas’ or Kings Tomb located on the mountainside behind Fethiye harbour. This impressive Lycian monument was built in 350 B.C.

Would like to see more Lycian artifacts ? The Fethiye Museum is a good place to start. The British Museum in London also contains many of the best collections of Lycian artifacts.

Would you like more information about The Lycian Way route? Lycian rock tombs or our Lycian Way holidays?

You can get in touch with us here.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Further reading;

https://www.ancient-origins.net/ancient-places-asia/ancient-lycians-and-their-spectacular-rock-cut-tombs-001756

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lycia

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lycian-rock-tombs