Lion Sarcophagus in Kas
Lion Sarcophagus in Kas, Kas, Turkey
The Lion Sarcophagus in Kas is located in the old part of the town of Kas, on Uzun Carsi Street. It is one of the most prominent ancient monuments preserved within the modern town center. The tomb belongs to the Lycian heritage of ancient Antiphellos, a city that existed here long before the current urban development appeared.
The sarcophagus is usually dated to the 4th century BC. It is made of stone and set on a high base. The lid has a shape characteristic of Lycia, resembling an overturned boat or an arch, while the reliefs on the ends depicting lions gave the monument its modern name. An inscription in the Lycian language has also survived on the surface, making the site important not only as an architectural monument but also as an epigraphic one.
For tourists, it is a convenient stop during a walk around Kas: the sarcophagus is located not on a separate archaeological site, but among ordinary town streets, shops, and houses. This makes it especially clear how ancient monuments in Kas remain part of the everyday urban environment. A visit takes little time, but helps provide a better understanding of the history of Lycia and ancient Antiphellos without a special trip to distant ruins.
Lion Sarcophagus in Kas on the map
Lion Sarcophagus in Kas on Uzun Carsi Street
This monument in the old part of Kas allows visitors to see Lycian heritage alongside the urban development.
A Lycian tomb among the streets of old Kas
The monument can be viewed from close range directly from the street. It is best to pay attention to the shape of the lid, the massive base, and the relief images of lions on the ends. The traces of the ancient inscription in the Lycian language are especially interesting for those interested in the history of writing and the culture of Asia Minor in the ancient period.
The Lion Sarcophagus does not require a long visit, but it works well as part of a walking route through old Kas. It is usually included in a walk along Uzun Carsi Street, where traditional urban architecture has been preserved and small shops and cafes operate. The monument is located in the open air, so a special ticket for an external viewing is usually not required.
Nearby are other traces of ancient Antiphellos, as well as Kas harbor and the ancient theater, which can be reached on foot. The sarcophagus is easy to reach from any part of central Kas on foot, as it is located within the historic quarter.
During the visit, it is important to remember that this is an archaeological site preserved in its historical location. You should not climb onto the base, and it is better not to touch the stone surface so as not to damage the ancient material. For most travelers, this is a short but meaningful stop that can easily be combined with sightseeing in the old town.
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