HISTORY OF KAS

KAS is built around the remains of ancient Antiphellos and there are ruins of a Hellenistic theatre, the monumental Lion Tomb and some hillside rock tombs in and around the town.  KAS was one of the most important marine cities and wine production sites of The Lycian civilization. In one area between the open sea and the hills, probably the acropolis of the ancient city, lies a rock tomb built with Doric triglyphs on the facade. Inside the tomb is a frieze of dancing female figures.

The acropolis was surrounded by a fortified wall, of which traces are to be seen on the facade facing the island of Meis (Kastellorizon), three miles across the water from Kas (this is a Greek island). To the west of Kas stands the well-preserved ancient theatre, possessing a remarkable view. There are also rock tombs to the north east of the town, carved into the steep cliffs. On the western edge of the acropolis, there are traces of a temple, and tombs of the Roman period are scattered about the town and along the coast.

In the Hellenic Period, in 133 BC, when the Pergamum King Attalos II turned over his territory to the Romans, Rome gained control over Anatolia. In addition to the immense territory around the Mediterranean that they governed, the Romans had also established rich city states in regions such as Egypt, Palestine, Syria and Anatolia. At the same time, social, economic and political conditions changed and the Eastern Mediterranean cities blended in and balanced with previously existing local sculptural and architectural traditions. Large statues of gods, powerful leaders and the aristocracy decorated monumental buildings.

A short distance from the centre of Kas is an ancient amphitheatre with magnificent views.

The sign below is erected at the site.  As you can see, the amphitheatre is over 2000 years old!  However, the local schoolchildren still use it for theatrical performances.