One of the six most important Lycian cities, Tlos was described in the Hittite Chronicle as “the most brilliant metropolis of the Lycian nation.” Although most Lycian cities were located along the coast, Tlos was strategically placed on a hill commanding expansive views of Xanthos Valley to the west and protected by the Akdag mountains to the east. The actual hill on which Tlos is perched is further secured by near-vertical slopes on three sides, making it a natural fortress. Evidence suggests that Tlos was inhabited 4,000 years ago, but the…
