A series of tombs carved into the rock can be found overlooking the ancient city of Myra. Getty Images
The Lycians, who once ruled the region of modern-day southwestern Turkey, were pioneers in democracy long before it became a global concept. Their political system, which thrived around 2,000 years ago, served as inspiration for America's democratic framework. However, one of their most fascinating legacies isn’t politics, but death. This part of the Mediterranean, once home to the Lycians, is dotted with monumental tombs, cliff-side burial sites, and elaborate sarcophagi, which reflect the Lycians' reverence for the afterlife.
As you drive through the picturesque coastal towns, you'll encounter these haunting yet beautiful tombs. Carved directly into the cliffs, these tombs look down on valleys, towns, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Many of these sites have survived through the centuries and are a testament to the Lycians' skill and reverence for their dead. These tombs are a defining feature of the region, often appearing seamlessly integrated into the landscape.
For those seeking adventure, finding these tombs can be a thrilling journey. Some are well-preserved at archaeological sites, where visitors can pay a small fee to explore. Others are hidden in rugged terrains, requiring a bit of an Indiana Jones-style adventure—climbing steep hills, navigating overgrown paths, or even riding boats to access the tombs.
The cliffside tomb overlooking Fethiye offers a stunning view of the sunset. CNN
Fethiye, a quiet port city on Turkey's "Turquoise Coast," is an excellent starting point for such explorations. After enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the coast, a sunset hike to the Aminthas Rock Tombs is highly recommended. Located on a cliff with a breathtaking view of the city, these tombs date back to the 4th century BCE and feature portals adorned with Greek-style columns. Though looted long ago, the tombs offer visitors a rare glimpse into ancient Lycian burial practices.
For those wondering about the cultural significance of these cliff tombs, there's still much to be speculated. One theory, shared by local guide Önder Uğuz, is that the Lycians believed a winged siren-like creature would carry the deceased to the afterlife. However, this remains unproven. Professor Catherine Draycott from Durham University points out that while we may never know the exact reasons behind the elevated tombs, it's clear they held significant meaning—whether it was to be closer to the heavens or to mark high status in society.
The King's Tomb, a sarcophagus in the coastal town of Kaş, is thought to be from the 4th century BCE. Getty Images
In addition to the famous cliff tombs in Fethiye, the region is home to other remarkable sites, such as the tombs in Myra, near the town of Demre. These cliffside burial sites are particularly impressive, and although the lower tombs can be entered, the higher ones remain out of reach. The ancient city of Xanthos also features unique pillar tombs, which further amplify the mystery surrounding Lycian death rituals.
The region’s wealth of tombs is so prevalent that they often become part of the everyday landscape. In towns like Fethiye, Kaş, and Kaleüçağız, it’s not uncommon to see a tomb casually placed in the middle of a road or beside a farm, almost unnoticed by locals. For visitors, it’s a surreal experience to find such ancient relics blending so seamlessly with modern life.
One of the more serene spots for exploring Lycian tombs is in Kaleüçağız, where you can visit Theimussa Ancient City. Here, towering sarcophagi stand among boulders, offering a peaceful yet haunting reflection of the past. The size and weight of the sarcophagi lids indicate the importance of those buried there.
Though the tombs are awe-inspiring, they sometimes go unnoticed by the locals, who live surrounded by these ancient structures every day. For example, a young waiter at a local café in Kaleüçağız admits, “I don’t really care about the historical things. I prefer nature and sport.” However, for visitors, the tombs are a captivating journey into the ancient world of the Lycians.
