Aperlae is a small but strategically important ancient settlement located on the Mediterranean coast of the ancient Lycian region, in southwestern modern-day Turkey. The city experienced active life particularly during the Roman and Byzantine periods, playing a role in regional trade and maritime activities as part of the Lycian League. Today, with its remains partially submerged, Aperlae is one of the significant archaeological sites bearing witness to Lycia's rich history.

History

While definitive information regarding Aperlae's foundation is limited, it is thought to have existed as a settlement from the mid-1st millennium BCE, in parallel with the general historical development of the region. The city, mentioned in ancient sources, stood out as one of the smaller members of the Lycian League, particularly during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Like other cities of the League, Aperlae was autonomous in its internal affairs but was subject to the League's decisions in foreign relations and defense. With the annexation of Lycia by the Roman Empire, it became part of the province of Lycia et Pamphylia in the 1st century CE. During this period, due to its location on Mediterranean trade routes, it enjoyed a relatively prosperous existence. The city continued to exist in the Early Byzantine period, becoming an episcopal see with the spread of Christianity, thus gaining religious significance. However, from the 7th century CE onwards, due to Arab raids and regional instability, it lost its population and was eventually abandoned.

Geographic Location

Aperlae is located within the borders of Kaş district in modern Antalya province, at the eastern tip of the Kekova region, on the southern coast of the Karadağ Peninsula. The city, with coordinates 36.159605, 29.782179, benefited from the advantages of a natural bay and harbor. This strategic position made Aperlae both a stopover for maritime trade routes and a connecting point between the hinterland and the coastline in antiquity. It maintained close relations with other Lycian cities in its vicinity, such as Simena (Kaleköy), Teimiusa (Üçağız), and Apollonia. The rugged geography of the region made the city's connection to the sea even more crucial. The area where the city is located is also notable for being partially submerged today, a condition closely related to changes in sea level.

Significance in Antiquity

Although Aperlae did not possess the extensive political or economic power of the Lycian League's major metropolises like Patara or Myra, it held a certain regional significance. As a port city, it played a critical role, particularly in fishing and small-scale maritime trade. The fertile lands surrounding the city suggest that agricultural production also contributed to its economy. Within the Lycian League, it sent its own representatives to the League's assembly, having a say in common defense and administrative matters. During the Roman period, it continued its commercial activities within the Pax Romana environment of the Mediterranean, contributing to the Imperial economy. Its status as an episcopal see in the Early Byzantine period indicates a significant transformation in the city's religious and administrative structure. This situation increased the city's influence in the region not only as a commercial hub but also as a spiritual center.

Coinage

Aperlae is an ancient mint represented in the NumisTR database by 5 coin varieties. The recorded coins were struck in silver and bronze. Authorities named on the coins include Lycian League. You can browse the city's coins in the Lycia coins list.

Archaeological Remains

The surviving remains of Aperlae reveal the city's historical layers. One of the most striking features of the city is that some structures lie below current sea level. Among the remains visible on land and underwater are city walls, house foundations, a necropolis (burial ground), and various civic structures. The necropolis contains rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi characteristic of Lycia. Traces of the city's harbor structures are also visible underwater. Furthermore, the remains of a church, believed to date from the Early Byzantine period, demonstrate the city's significance during the Christian era. These remains attest to Aperlae's active existence over a long period and its bearing the imprints of different civilizations.

Today

Today, Aperlae is situated in a tranquil bay, far from modern settlements. Access is typically by sea, with visits possible via boats departing from harbors such as Kaş or Üçağız (Teimiusa). Its partially submerged remains offer a unique experience, especially for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. While land access is possible via challenging trails, it is generally not preferred. Aperlae is a peaceful archaeological site, blending Lycia's natural beauty with its rich historical heritage, awaiting further exploration.