Array

Exploring Letoon: Turkey’s Hidden Gem of Ancient History

All right, my fellow journeyers, let us today discuss a place that definitely doesn’t receive the recognition it merits – Letoon. If you are a person who likes the unusual, prepare for you have not been here before.

Why You Should Visit Letoon?

So why Letoon? Firstly, it is an ancient sanctuary which honours goddess Leto and her two children Apollo and Artemis. I mean this is a place that dates back to the seventh century BC! However, it isn’t about the history only as some kind of special feeling comes in while walking through the ruins where you can still see three temples dedicated to them. It’s like going back in time without having to contend with crowds common at more famous places like Ephesus.

Letoon is even cooler because it is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside neighbouring Xanthos. Since there is an extensive mythological and historical background surrounding this area (after all, who does not love this?), then Letoon becomes a sightseeing compulsion. Furthermore, its calmness will allow one meditate silently here. The air seems pregnant with antiquity.

How to Get There?

Finding your way to Letoon isn’t a major issue but you have to organize yourself in some way. It is situated in the Muğla Province around Kumluova. If one happens to be staying in Fethiye and Kaş, then this is your lucky day as it is only 45 minutes’ drive from either of them. As you may want to be flexible on your own schedule, public transportation may not be successful so renting a car might be your best option.

For those who want maximize their planning, here’s a tip: visit Xanthos and then proceed to Letoon. They are right next door and can both be seen in one day. It’s like getting a double dose of ancient history.

What to Expect When You Get There?

Letoon is not going to require that you spend hours wandering around like some other ruins do since it is just too small. But hey, that’s what makes it so nice! The site is tiny but packed with history. Here there are temple remains, nymphaeum (fancy word for nymphs’ monument) even an old theater.

The most interesting thing about Letoon is that there are inscriptions written both in Greek and Lycian languages. This Island has many linguistic treasures! And if photography interests you, then this place offers a million opportunities for Instagram pictures. The broken down structures combined with the Turkish scenery form great shots.

When to Visit?

The best time to visit Letoon is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the landscape is verdant. In summer, temperatures can be very high, so you’ll need water, as well as sun cream if you’re visiting during this period. But then again, who wants too many tourists in the intense heat?

Letoon may not be the most well-known place in Turkey but that’s exactly why you should go there. It is peaceful, historical and a glimpse into ancient civilization away from people thronged places. Whether you love history, are mad about mythologies or just want a quiet place to explore then Letoon would serve you right.

So add Letoon to your itinerary for Turkey – I promise you won’t regret it! Now picture yourself standing among those ruins of antiquity, and ask yourself why this secret has not been properly discovered by all… But let’s keep it between us for now shall we?

Happy travels!