Fethiye is one of the most popular resorts due to its gorgeous nature, and historical importance. Built on a wide bay, strewn with many islands. Fethiye is located at 135 kilometers southwest of Marmaris and has an outstanding and busy marina. The ancient name of the city is Telmessos. You will see a fortress on the hill overlooking the city which was built by Knights of Rhodes. Fethiye is known for its rock tombs carved into the faces of the cliffs by the Lycians. These are elaborately carved and an especially remarkable; one is the tomb of Amnytas dating from the 4th century BC built in Doric architectural style. It is worth well visiting. Other historical places in the city are the Sarcopaghi (rock tombs) and the Fethiye Tower (Fethiye Castle).
In this weeks blog post, we will be giving short, yet valuable information about 3 locations of either natural or historical beauty and importance.

Pinara Ancient City

The beautiful site of Pinara was one of the three major settlements in the Xanthos Valley and one of the six main cities of Lycia. Settlement at Pinara was populated as early as the 5th century BC. It was supposedly built as an extension of the overpopulated Xanthos. According to Manecrates, a 4th century BC historian, the leaders of Xanthos realized that their city was overpopulated and decided to split the city into three groups. One of those three groups were settled at Pinara.

In the Lycian Federation Pinara was one of the six cities with the most voting power. It became the centre of bishopric in the Byzantine Era but declined in terms of importance and was abandoned in the 9th century. There is no other Lycian site quite like Pinara with its untouched, gorgeous mountain setting of fragrant pines, ancient olive trees, wildflowers, thyme-scented breezes and its stunning view over the Xanthos Valley.

Pinara can be reached from the main highway between Fethiye and Kalkan, about 17 km northwest of Xanthos. The highway is marked by a Pinara signpost near the town of Eşen. Turn off the highway and continue to the town of Minare (about 4 km) until you come to the Pinara signpost indicating a left turn. Follow the site for 2 kilometers. The road up to Pinara is much better than it was few years ago.

Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur)

Paspatur, The Old Town City Center, has an authentic covered market (bazaar) with many traditional Turkish shops. Shops offer their visitors a wide range of products, from a genuine Turkish carpet to glaring, handcrafted golden jewelry and household items, and the famous Turkish desert, Turkish delight. It is also known as the “heart of the night life”. There are many bars, night clubs and cafes that you can enjoy live performances of local musicians or just leave yourself to the beat of the dance music at Paspatur.

Fethiye Tower (Castle)

The Castle is located up on the hill, and just built on the site where once stood the town itself. Over time, the city expanded and descended to the base, while Fethiye Castle remained alone in its beauty and grandeur. It was originally built in the 11th century and during the 15th century, the Knights of Rhodes again rebuilt and renovated the ruins. During this period the castle was used as a naval base.

Once you climb to the walls up on the hill, you will see that not much is left of the castle, but you will not be disappointed. Besides, you will be able to look around the ruins and enjoy the view of the city that stretches in front of you.

Follow our weekly updated blog to learn more about the natural beauties, and historical importance of the area surrounding Fethiye. Check our websites for more information about the services we provide for your comfort while you visit Pinara, Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur), or Fethiye Castle, or the other beautiful sites around Fethiye. To learn more about our Rent A Car Services, Airport transfer services, and the tours we organise around Fethiye, visit our website at: fethiyelovers.com