Telmessos (Fethiye)
Telmessos: The Glittering Jewel of Ancient Lycia Introduction: Tucked in the heart of modern-day Fethiye lies Telmessos, a city with a…
Introduction:
The Founding Myths and Legends:
2. Apollo’s Romantic Endeavor: Legend speaks of the god Apollo’s infatuation with Agenor’s youngest daughter. His love, manifested as a transformed little dog, eventually won the princess’s heart. From their union, Telmessos, which translates to “the land of lights”, was born.
Telmessos in the Annals of History:
2. The Prophecy Hub: Throughout its history, Telmessos gained renown as a prophecy center, with its seers influencing major historical turns.
3. Alexander the Great’s Intrigue: Legend has it that Alexander the Great, during his Asian campaign, devised a cunning plan. His soldiers, disguised as musicians and slaves, stealthily took over the city’s acropolis amidst night festivities in 334-333 BC.
4. A Chess Piece of Empires: The city’s strategic importance saw it being handed from one ruler to another. From Ptolemy III’s reign to the Romans and eventually, the Pergamon kingdom, Telmessos remained a coveted prize. In 133 BC, it became a part of the Lycian League, standing out as one of its six paramount cities.
