| Kas was originally called Habesos or Habesa in the ancient tongue of Lycia and
later was given the name Antiphellos. It is one of the oldest settlements in the region of Lycia. Most
of the ancient settlement is now covered by the modern town of Kas. The rock-cut tombs to the
north-east of the town date to the 4th century B.C. On a rise between the open sea and the hill, which
was probably the acropolis of the ancient city, lies a rock tomb formed like a Doric structure with
Doric triglyphs on the facade. Inside the tomb can be found 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). No traces of fortifications are to be seen on the northern or western
slopes. To the west of the modern town stands the ancient theatre overlooking the sea. This structure
possesses a remarkable view. It was constructed of local limestone and today the tribunes and outer
walls are still visible although no trace of the scene is left. On the western edge of the acropolis
are traces of a temple. Tombs of the Roman period are scattered about the town and along the coast. |
