Cadianda - yesiluzumulu (Pt 1 - Setting the scene and the surrounding scenery)

Cadianda was a town in ancient Lycia and was founded around 3000 BC although the oldest remains that can be seen on this site are from 5th century BC. Most of the ruins that can be seen are from the Hellenistic and Roman periods through to about 4th century AD. It is believed that the last settlements were in the 7th century AD.

Liz and myself are very fortunate to have this magnificent ruined site virtually on our doorstep. There is an untarmacked but well preserved track that can be driven up with care that only takes 20 minutes from our village, but there are a number of walking tracks to the site that take upto two hours through the forest depending on the heat and how much physical exursion you want to apply.   

Situated above Yesiluzumlu on a steep and heavily pine forested mountain the extensive ruined site gives magnificent views to the coast and Fethiye and to the Western Taurus Mountains.

There is a small charge to enter the site in summer months if the ticket booth is manned, a small car park and toilet is available before you enter the site.

 The site has a path to follow that ensures you see all the major constructions and view points as it winds through the wooded Pine forest that dominates the site, however most of the ruins are thought to be underground as the topography of the landscape has changed over the many centuries through erosion, landslides and probably minor earthquakes, however what you can see is still incredible.

Fantastic scenery as you leave the village of Uzumlu either walking or driving along the Cadianda road towards the base of the Cadianda mountain

Glorious scenery part way up the Cadianda mountain road and looking towards both Geyran mountain in the foreground and the snow capped Western Taurus Mountains.

and of course it can look so much different when the weather turns 

The following images are from the direction of walking from the village straight up the mountainside

Cadianda site information as you reach the summit, Peter, Mike and Liz 

Peter, Liz and Mike enjoy the mountain view

Mountain goats coming down the track and sending a dusty cloud up as they brake to a halt.... maybe surprised to see anyone walking up hill in this heat.....

We found this farmers picnic table on the way up as the goats came down at speed

Even the goat appreciate this natural water source

Part 2 will show the Lycian ruins of Cadianda in pictures