The name “Pınara,” meaning “round,” originates from the Lycian word “Pilleni,” a reference to the city’s distinctive round-shaped rock formations. Built on steep cliffs, Pınara enchants visitors with its breathtaking natural surroundings and rich historical heritage..

Pınara is believed to have been founded in the 5th century BC by colonists from Xanthos, another significant Lycian city. As one of the six major cities in the Lycian League, Pınara held three votes in the federation, underscoring its political and economic prominence in the region. Its strategic location and strong fortifications made it a vital center of commerce and culture.

The city’s mythology adds to its allure. According to ancient legends, Pınara was founded by Pinaros, the son of Niobe, a figure from Greek mythology. Additionally, Homer’s Iliad mentions a Lycian warrior named Pandaros, who is believed to have hailed from Pınara, further connecting the city to the epic Trojan War.

What sets Pınara apart from other Lycian cities is its mesmerizing landscape. Perched on a steep rock, the city offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The rock tombs carved into the cliffs, resembling a beehive pattern, are among the most striking examples of Lycian funerary architecture. The city also features a well-preserved amphitheater, an agora, a temple dedicated to Aphrodite, and remnants of Roman-era structures.

Pınara’s isolation has contributed to its relatively untouched and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Walking through its ancient ruins feels like stepping back in time, with every path revealing new stories of Lycian life and culture.

Visitor Information

Today, Pınara is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List, a list of properties that a state intends to consider for nomination to the World Heritage List, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. The ancient city is located approximately 5 kilometers west of the Fethiye-Kaş highway, near the village of Minare. Visitors can access the site via a 2-kilometer stabilized road from the village.

Unlike more crowded ancient sites, Pınara offers a peaceful and immersive experience. Its combination of stunning natural beauty and well-preserved ruins makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known gems of Lycia. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler in search of hidden treasures, Pınara promises an unforgettable journey into the past.

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Over the centuries, it has evolved into a cultural mosaic, welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds and assimilating their influences. This transformation has bestowed Fethiye with a unique identity, enriched by the convergence of various cultures and histories.

A Tapestry of Cultures

Fethiye’s cultural heritage is the result of its long history as a crossroads of civilizations. The district has seen the rise and fall of empires, including the Lycians, Persians, Romans, and Ottomans. Each of these civilizations left indelible marks on Fethiye, influencing its architecture, culinary traditions, and societal norms. Today, tourists from all over the world add their own cultural flavors to this vibrant tapestry, immersing themselves in local traditions while sharing their own.

Historical Continuity and Modern Flourishes

The ancient cities, rock tombs, and historical castles of Fethiye are testaments to its rich past. These sites provide a glimpse into the lifestyles and beliefs of ancient peoples, linking the present to the past. However, since the latter half of the 20th century, Fethiye has experienced a tourism boom, attracting visitors primarily from England, Germany, and the Netherlands. This influx of tourists has transformed Fethiye’s landscape and economy, making it an internationally recognized destination.

Tourism’s Impact and Evolution

The rise of tourism has brought about significant changes in Fethiye:

• Economic Growth: Tourism has become the cornerstone of Fethiye’s economy. The establishment of hotels, restaurants, and other tourist facilities has improved local living standards.
• Infrastructure Development: To accommodate the growing number of visitors, there have been substantial investments in infrastructure, including expanded roads, modernized ports, and increased airport capacity.
• Cultural Exchange: The diverse influx of tourists has created a vibrant cultural atmosphere, introducing new traditions and lifestyles that have enriched the local community.
• Social Dynamism: Tourism has invigorated Fethiye’s social scene, leading to the opening of international restaurants, bars, and cafes, and a more active nightlife.
• Environmental Awareness: The pressures of tourism have highlighted environmental issues, fostering a growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices.

Sustainability Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its economic benefits, tourism has also introduced environmental challenges, such as increased waste, overuse of resources, and marine pollution. Addressing these concerns requires a commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Raising environmental awareness among locals and tourists, protecting natural resources, and implementing effective waste management systems are crucial steps toward ensuring Fethiye’s long-term sustainability.

Fethiye’s transformation from a historical settlement to a modern cultural hub underscores the profound impact of external influences. As it continues to grow as a premier tourism destination in Türkiye, the district faces the challenge of balancing development with the preservation of its natural and cultural wealth. By prioritizing sustainability, Fethiye can maintain its unique charm and continue to thrive as a beacon of cultural diversity and natural beauty.

Source: Gerçek Fethiye

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By KARA GODFREY

Less than two hours from Dalaman Airport lies Fethiye, a beautiful city that is home to some of the best restaurants and activities.

Walking along the natural harbour is the perfect place to try some of the best local food before grabbing a boat and sailing out for a day on the sea on the famous Ölüdeniz beach.

Even paragliding 1800km from Babadağ Mountains is recommended as one of the best ways to see the numerous lagoons and beaches, using Sky Sports (www.skysports-turkey.com) as one of the most reputable firms in the area for even the most nervous of flyers to seem secure.

Yet renting a car and driving through the region is the best way to learn about the history of the country, looking at the ruins and artefacts of the Lycian culture, one with a fascinating past.

Lycia was part of Anatolia, what is now seen as modern-day Türkiye, and has since become the areas of Antalya and Muğla.

Dating back to the 15th century BC, the native language was lost over time, during their defeat during the Persian Wars as well as being infused with Greek after falling to Alexander the Great.

One of the most popular sights of Lycian history is the rock tombs of Fethiye and Dalyan.

Many fallen citizens were buried in these rock tombs that were built into the rocky cliffs.

Depending on the money and status of the departed, rock tombs varied from a simple hole in the wall to an ornate and grandeur door where the dead would be buried with their riches, ready to be resurrected.

Kayaköy

The ghost village of Kayaköy reveals some of the most recent history of the culture.

A large community of Greeks lived in Lycia but were forced to abandon their homes in 1920 following a population exchange with Greece.

While they were told they would return, this never came to fruition and the homes were looted for everything including the wooden beams of the roofs, leaving behind the shell of the house. The stunning empty houses are left to be explored in the open elements as they fall into disrepair.

The ghost village was also the backdrop to the famous Louis de Bernieres novel Birds Without Wings, a 1920s love story.

Xanthos-Letoon

Next, head to Xanthos-Letoon, a UNESCO site that is one of the most important religious areas that dates back to the 6th century BC.

The inscriptions provided historians with an abundance of knowledge surrounding Lycian traditions and Hellenic influence.

Once the capital of Lycia, the Temple of Leto is the main attraction, along with rock tombs of modest design.

Saklıkent Gorge

Saklıkent Gorge is also worth a drive through, albeit rather touristy, as the second largest gorge in Europe and one of the deepest in the world.

The 4km hike is a long and slippery one but is worth the ending with a beautiful waterfall gushing into the river.

Netted hammocks and low tables are perfect for those who want to catch a break, settled into the shallow water to stay cool and dip their toes while eating the local fish.

Tlos

Tlos, an ancient ruin on the hill of Lycia, was one of the six cities in the region and are one to explore along the drive.

It is one of the oldest and largest settlements, before being inhabited by Romans, Byzantines and Ottoman Turks during the defeat of the Lycian culture.

A large Roman theatre within the hillside shows off the backdrop to the majestic ruins, along with two bathhouses just next door. It was also home in Greek Mythology to the winged horse Pegasus, and his owner Bellerophon.

Lycian Way

One of the main attractions of the holiday comes with staying up in the hills, close to the Lycian Way. Stretching from Ölüdeniz beach to Geyikbayırı in Antalya, the 540km walk takes a full three weeks to do in its entirety.

Expect to see campers walking in the sweltering heat with their backpacks and water bottles, but clever holidaymakers can choose to explore just a couple of miles (outside of the midday sun) to explore.

The rocky terrain, while slightly treacherous, opens up to carob trees, pine honey, and an abundance of herbs and fruits such as figs and pistachios throughout offering an assault on the senses of chattering birds and rich sweet smells.

Nestled along the way is Kıdrak beach; there is a charge to enter but the beach is nearly entirely devoid of tourists for an off-the-beaten-track experience.

Where to stay

To avoid the over-tourism that is plaguing the popular cities in Europe, staying at boutique hotel Mandarin & Mango within the hillside is a must.

Coming with a story, the furniture found throughout is the owner’s grandfather’s heirlooms, or is built from the rocks and the wood found within the area.

Private rooms with a balcony and hot tub, spacious and cool bedrooms and ornately build furniture made from scratch, offer no noise but the birds and the morning cockerel.

Winding down near the private pool before dinner, a five-course affair made from scratch is on offer which varies every day, even for travellers who choose to spend a fortnight.

Tango classes, cookery lessons and yoga can even be tried in the hotel throughout the year during certain months.

Dog lovers will enjoy being greeted by Pasha, the old mongrel with arthritis who lazes by the pool.

Getting there

Fly all year round from London to Dalaman with Pegasus Airlines’ daily scheduled flights. Book at www.flypgs.com, on Pegasus App or via usual sales channels.

This article was first published on 19 July 2018.

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