Fethiye

Known as Telmessos in antiquity, the city was an important settlement at the crossroads of the Lycian and Carian civilisations. Having been under the rule of the Persians, Alexander the Great, the Romans, Byzantines, Menteşe Beylik and Ottomans, Fethiye preserves traces of different historical periods. In 1934, the city was renamed Fethiye in memory of Fethi Bey, one of the first Turkish pilots, who was killed in 1913.

One of the most significant monuments reflecting Fethiye’s historical identity is the Amintas Kaya Mezarı, carved into the rocky slopes. Dating back to the 4th century BCE, this monumental tomb is a remarkable example of Lycian rock-cut tomb architecture, with its temple-like façade. The ancient theatre, sarcophagi (stone coffins) and other rock-cut tombs in the city also shed light on the history of Telmessos. Kayaköy, with its stone houses, churches, chapels and narrow streets, bears witness to the region’s more recent history. Largely abandoned following the population exchange, this former settlement is now an important historic site preserving traces of the past.

Among Fethiye’s natural attractions are Ölüdeniz, Kelebekler Valley, Babadağ, Saklıkent Canyon and Çalış Beach. The sheltered lagoon of Ölüdeniz, together with the surrounding mountain scenery, has made the area an internationally renowned tourism destination. Paragliding flights from Babadağ offer spectacular aerial views of the coastline and coves. Fethiye is also one of the starting points of the historic Lycian Way. With its ancient cities, traditional settlements, rich natural life and coastal culture, Fethiye is a distinctive Mediterranean destination where history and nature come together.