The hillside site of ancient Labranda, surrounded by pines, occupies the area that supplied Mylasa's drinking water. Labranda's local deity was worshipped since at least the 6th century BC, subsequently becoming a sanctuary of Zeus, under Mylasa's control. The great Temple of Zeus honours the god's warlike aspect (Stratius, or Labrayndus means 'Axe-Bearing'). Festivals and Olympic games occurred at Labranda, which possibly possessed an oracle.
The Labranda turn-off is marked on the highway on the northern side of Milas (en route to Lake Bafa). It's 14km from there; unless you're driving, take a Milas taxi (₺40 including an hour of waiting).
