Lions Tomb

Lions Tombs; The King’s Tomb in Kaş

Kaş, one of the most peaceful corners of the Mediterranean, is a fascinating destination not only with its clear sea and friendly streets, but also with its magnificent structures that host thousands of years of history. While walking in Uzun Çarşı, which has an untouched historical texture in the center of Kaş, a majestic monumental tomb that suddenly appears before you from the depths of time forces you to pause: Kaş King’s Tomb, also known as the “Lion Sarcophagus.”

This sarcophagus is considered one of the most impressive remains bearing the traces of the Lycian civilization. Dating back to the 4th century BC, this work is one of the rare Lycian sarcophagi that has survived to the present day. The tomb, whose entrance is placed on a stone platform raised by steps, has stylized lion heads at both ends. Due to these details, it is also known as the “Lion Sarcophagus” among the locals. The lion figures on the upper lid of the sarcophagus are important motifs reflecting the power and aesthetic understanding of Lycian art.

The inscriptions and reliefs on the King’s Tomb offer visitors not only a visual but also a historical reading. Unfortunately, the alphabet in the inscriptions has not yet been fully deciphered, but this adds to the mystery of the tomb. Although there is no clear information about who the sarcophagus was made for, its architectural structure and location suggest that the person buried here was probably a king or an important commander from the Lycian aristocracy.

One of the most striking aspects of the tomb is that it is located right in the middle of modern life, in the heart of Uzun Bazaar, which was once a trade route. There are cafes, souvenir shops and boutique hotels around it; however, despite all this liveliness, the sarcophagus maintains its calm and magnificence. During the day, its stones shine with the golden light of the sun, and in the evening, it takes on a more mystical appearance under the street lamps. This tomb, which is a unique stop especially for photographers and history enthusiasts, creates one of the most unforgettable moments of a walk in Kaş.

When you walk through the Long Bazaar, suddenly coming across this tomb gives the visitor the feeling of traveling back in time. The fact that a tomb from thousands of years ago still stands with all its elegance in the daily life of modern Kaş reveals Kaş’s strong connection with the past. Also an important stopping point for travelers walking the Lycian Way, this sarcophagus reminds us how rich and worthy of preservation the cultural heritage of the region is.

In conclusion, the King’s Tomb in Kaş Long Bazaar is not just a stone structure; it is a silent narrator that carries the elegance, perspective on death and aesthetic understanding of a civilization to the present day. If you ever find yourself in Kaş, take a short break under the shadow of this sarcophagus. Maybe you too can hear the stories that history silently whispers.

How you Get the Lions Tomb ;