Phellos

Phellos is an important mountain settlement located in the interior of the ancient Lycian region, within the borders of modern-day Kaş district of Antalya province. It is particularly known as a predecessor or a closely related hinterland settlement of the port city of Antiphellos (modern Kaş). It stands out with its defensible location and rich archaeological remains.

History

Although the exact foundation date of Phellos is unknown, the earliest traces of settlement in the region date back to the 5th century BCE. It gained importance particularly during the Hellenistic Period (3rd century BCE - 1st century BCE), when the Lycian League was active. As a member of the Lycian League, the city contributed to the league's common policies and defense system. Ancient writers such as Strabo stated that Phellos was the metropolis of coastal Antiphellos (modern Kaş) and that Antiphellos developed as a port of Phellos. This supports the idea that Phellos was an older settlement and that over time the population shifted towards the coast. Phellos continued its existence during the Roman Empire and was also inhabited during the Byzantine period, but began to lose its importance during this process. The abandonment of the city is linked to general security issues in the region and the rise of coastal settlements.

Geographic Location

Phellos is situated approximately 10 kilometers inland from the Mediterranean coast, on high and mountainous terrain, at an elevation of about 600 meters above sea level. This strategic location provided the city with both a natural defensive advantage and a wide panoramic view. The city is located north of Kaş (Antiphellos), on the road leading to the Gömbe plateau. The surrounding fertile valleys and plateaus offered favorable conditions for agriculture and animal husbandry. Among Phellos's neighboring cities are important Lycian settlements such as Antiphellos to the south, Kyaneai to the east, and Apollonia and Teimiusa (Üçağız) to the west. This location, although not on major regional trade routes, allowed the city to play a role in connecting the interior regions with the coast.

Significance in Antiquity

Phellos played a significant role in the political and economic structure of ancient Lycia. Its acceptance as the metropolis of Antiphellos particularly indicates that Phellos was the primary and main settlement in the region. This suggests that the city was a strategic center from a defensive and administrative perspective. Although the exact number of votes it held within the Lycian League is not fully known, it is certain that the city participated in the league's decision-making processes. Phellos's economy was largely based on agriculture (especially olive and grape cultivation) and animal husbandry. Thanks to its elevated position, it offered the opportunity to monitor the surrounding coastline and maritime trade, thus possibly playing a passive role in the region's security. Furthermore, rich tomb monuments and temple remains indicate that the city's religious and cultural life was also vibrant.

Coinage

Phellos is an ancient mint represented in the NumisTR database by 18 coin varieties. The recorded coins were struck in silver and bronze. Authorities named on the coins include Lycian League, Kherei, Kheriga and Sppntaza. You can browse the city's coins in the Lycia coins list.

Archaeological Remains

Today, significant archaeological remains from Phellos survive. The city's acropolis is surrounded by well-preserved fortification walls, which date to the Hellenistic period. At the foot of the acropolis lies the city's necropolis. This necropolis is filled with rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi characteristic of Lycia. Particularly the monumental rock-cut tombs showcase the artistic and architectural richness of the region. Furthermore, in the city center, remains of an agora, traces of a theater, and foundations of various civic buildings and temples can be seen. These remains offer important insights into the city's ancient planning and architecture.

Today

The ancient city of Phellos is located today near Çukurbağ village, which is part of Kaş district in Antalya province. Access to the city remains is provided via the highway from Kaş center towards Gömbe. Due to its high and mountainous location, the remains are relatively well-preserved. Although there are no specific facilities or arrangements for visitors, it is an important archaeological site awaiting discovery by nature hikers and history enthusiasts.