Limyra Ancient City Limyra, an ancient city situated in Lycia, held great importance during the reign of King Pericles as it became the capital of Lycia and was granted three votes in the Lycian Union. Its prominence dates back at least to the 5th century BC, as confirmed by an inscription from that era featuring the city's name. In the early 4th century BC, under King Pericles' rule, Limyra was selected as the capital for the newly formed Lycian Union. The city's strategic position on the mountainside northeast of the Finike Plains contributed to its suitability as the capital. During the Byzantine Empire, Limyra remained a significant center, functioning as an episcopal hub. Today, the ruins of ancient Limyra are located near Zengerler village along the Kumluca-Finike road, about 11 km beyond Kumluca. The site continues to be an important archaeological location, shedding light on the rich heritage of Lycia. After the Persian defeat by Alexander the Great, Limyra came under the control of various rulers including Helen, Ptolemaios, Lysimakhos, and Syria. Nevertheless, its golden age flourished during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, following the era of King Pericles. In the Byzantine period, Limyra was an important bishopric, but the city was eventually deserted after repeated raids by Arab forces in the 8th and 9th centuries. The city’s acropolis sits atop Tocak Mount, roughly 300 meters above sea level. To the north of the ancient settlement lie the inner fortress and lower castle. This naturally fortified hill is encircled by walls and includes a castle, palace, and fortress. Additionally, carved stairs and pits within the rock are believed to represent Persian fire altars. On the southern side of the acropolis stands the Mausoleum of Pericles, adorned with caryatids dating back to approximately 300 B.C. Known also as the Heroon of Pericles, this tomb features a temple-like facade overlooking both the city and the Mediterranean from a prestigious location atop the acropolis. Measuring 10 by 6 meters, the tomb is built upon a terrace measuring 19 by 18 meters and was dedicated to one of the city’s founders. Key elements of the Perikle Heroon are exhibited at the Antalya Museum and are highly recommended for visitors. The Ptolemaion Monument is a funerary structure crowned with a cone-shaped roof resting on a 15-meter base. Erected by the Ptolemaic kings, former rulers of Egypt who regarded themselves as divine, this monument dates back several centuries. After the death of Alexander the Great, the Ptolemaic Empire expanded its influence into Lycia, building temples modeled after those in Egypt. The Ptolemaion monument in Limyra is the best-preserved example, featuring a cylindrical main temple with a square layout, decorated with friezes depicting the kings. The Cenotaph of Gaius Caesar is a commemorative monument honoring those who have passed away without their remains present. Gaius Caesar, son of Emperor Augustus, died in Limyra, though his body was transported back to Rome. He fell in battle on February 21st, 4 CE, and this monument was erected to honor his memory. If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply send us a message on Whatsapp, and we will reply promptly.