Letoon

Nestled in the picturesque region of modern-day Kumluova district of Fethiye, the ancient sanctuary of Letoon stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history, mythology, and architecture. A place where legends come alive and ancient stones whisper tales of gods and mortals, Letoon offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of Lycia. This article delves deep into the mesmerizing world of Letoon, exploring its historical significance, the myths that surround it, and the architectural marvels that have withstood the test of time.

The Historical Significance of Letoon

The Ancient Roots of Letoon and Xanthos

Believed to have been founded in the 7th century BC, Letoon served as the spiritual epicenter of Lycia. Its close association with the nearby settlement of Xanthos, which dates back to an astounding 3000 BC, highlights the intertwined destinies of these two ancient sites. Xanthos, known as the main administrative center and capital of Lycia in antiquity, together with Letoon, earned a coveted spot in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988, cementing their importance in global history.

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

The combined heritage of Xanthos and Letoon offers a vivid portrayal of the blend of Lycian traditions with Hellenic influences. This amalgamation is especially evident in their funerary art. The inscriptions found here, particularly the epigraphic texts, are invaluable for understanding the history of the Lycian people and their unique Indo-European language. For those interested in exploring the wonders of Lycian civilization, a Marmaris to Fethiye Gulet Cruise or embarking on a Fethiye Blue Cruise offers a captivating journey through time.

Myths and Legends Surrounding Letoon

Zeus, Leto, and the Birth of Apollo and Artemis

The tales surrounding Letoon are deeply rooted in Greek mythology:

• Zeus's Affair: The mighty god Zeus was smitten by the beauty of Leto, the daughter of the Titans, Kios and Phoibe.
• Hera's Jealousy: Hera, Zeus's wife, consumed by jealousy, tried to prevent Leto from giving birth to Zeus’s children.
• Seeking Refuge: Leto fled to Lycia in Anatolia to escape Hera's wrath, where she gave birth to twins, Apollo and Artemis.
• Letoon's Significance: The sanctuary of Letoon was established in honor of Leto and her offspring, symbolizing its spiritual importance in Lycia.

The Sanctuary's Role in Lycian Spirituality

Letoon's significance goes beyond mythology:

• Pre-Greek Influence: Archaeological finds suggest the area's sanctity predates the spread of Greek religion in Anatolia, with evidence dating back to the 6th century BC.
• Roman Era: The sanctuary continued to be of importance through the Roman era, with an early church constructed using stones from the original sanctuary.
• Christian Influence: The church, abandoned in the 7th century, offers a glimpse into the area's Christian history.

Architectural Marvels of Letoon

The Three Holy Temples

The architectural grandeur of Letoon is evident in its temples:

• Leto's Temple: Located in the west and built in the Ionian style, this is the largest temple dedicated to Leto.
• Apollo's Temple: To the east, this Doric-style temple stands out with its wooden foundations, reminiscent of Lycian tombs. Inside, a replica of an original mosaic showcases a lyre, a bow and arrow, and a floral centerpiece.
• Artemis's Temple: Situated centrally, this Ionian-style temple is the smallest of the three.

Other Noteworthy Ruins in the Letoon Complex

Beyond the temples, Letoon boasts other architectural wonders:

• Nymphaeum: An ornamental fountain adorned with statues, associated with Leto's worship and water.
• Xanthos Theater: A massive antique theater with a capacity of 2,200 people, reflecting both Hellenistic and Roman architectural styles.
• Byzantine Church: A 6th-century church built using stones from the Apollo and Artemis temples, offering insights into the area's Christian history.

The Letoon Trilingual: A Linguistic Treasure

One of the most significant discoveries at Letoon is the Letoon Trilingual, a monumental inscription that has played a pivotal role in understanding the Lycian language. This artifact, written in Greek, Aramaic, and Lycian, was found near the Temple of Leto. Scholars have used this trilingual inscription to decipher the Lycian language, shedding light on the linguistic intricacies of this ancient civilization. Today, the Letoon Trilingual stands as a testament to the rich linguistic heritage of the region and can be admired in the Fethiye Museum.

The Changing Landscape of Letoon

Over the centuries, nature has left its mark on Letoon. The lower parts of many structures, including the temples, are submerged due to rising water levels. This aquatic transformation adds a mystical aura to the ruins, with aquatic creatures now inhabiting the remnants of what were once grand edifices of worship and reverence.