Historical Significance
Xanthos was the capital of ancient Lycia and is known for its strategic location and its role as a political and cultural center. The city has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the 8th century BCE.

Monuments and Ruins
The site features impressive ruins, including

The Nereid Monument
A tomb built for a Lycian noble, adorned with reliefs depicting Nereids (sea nymphs) and other mythological figures.

The Lycian Rock Tombs
Carved into the cliffs, these tombs are characteristic of Lycian funerary architecture.

The Theater
A well-preserved theater that reflects the Hellenistic influence on Lycian architecture.

Inscription and Language
Xanthos is notable for its inscriptions in both Lycian and Greek, providing valuable insights into the language and culture of the Lycians.

Letoon

Religious Significance
Letoon was an important religious center dedicated to the worship of Leto and her children, Apollo and Artemis. It served as a sanctuary and was a site of pilgrimage.

Temples
The site features three main temples:

Temple of Leto
The largest of the three, dedicated to the mother of Apollo and Artemis.

Temple of Apollo
A significant structure that reflects the architectural style of the period.

Temple of Artemis
Smaller than the other two but still an important part of the complex.

Sacred Water
The site is also known for its sacred water, which was believed to have healing properties.

Cultural Landscape
The Xanthos-Letoon site reflects the cultural and historical interactions between the Lycians, Greeks, and Romans. The blend of architectural styles and religious practices illustrates the region’s diverse heritage.

UNESCO Designation
The UNESCO designation emphasizes the outstanding universal value of Xanthos-Letoon as a cultural landscape that showcases the achievements of the Lycian civilization. It highlights the importance of the site in understanding the history of ancient Anatolia and its interactions with neighboring cultures.