On a rocky outcrop high above a pastoral plain, Tlos was one of the most important cities of ancient Lycia. So effective was its elevated position that the well-guarded city remained inhabited until the early 19th century. As you climb the winding road to the ruins, look for the acropolis topped with an Ottoman fortress on the right.
Beneath the fortress, reached by a narrow path, are Lycian-era rock tombs , including that of the warrior Bellerophon of Chimaera fame. It has a temple-like façade carved into the rock face and to the left a fine bas-relief of our hero riding Pegasus, the winged horse.
Tlos' theatre is 100m further up the road from the ticket kiosk. It's in excellent condition, with most of its marble seating intact, and the stage wall is being rebuilt. Look among the rubble of the stage building for blocks carved with an eagle, a player's mask and garlands. Just across the road are ruins of the ancient baths (note the apothecary symbol – snake and staff – carved on an outer wall on the south side).
