The Necropolis of Ancient Myra

Lycians believed that burying their dead high up would facilitate their rise to heaven. Until then, it seems that they expected the dead to spend some time on earth, as the tombs are carved to look like cozy old homes, complete with pediments, pillars, and support beams. Additional tombs are located to the west of the Roman theater, including the distinguishable carvings of a funerary rite decorating one tomb, known as the Painted Tomb.

The Roman theater, carved into the face of the mountain Greek-style, dates to 141 when it was rebuilt following an earthquake. The two vaults may have been added at this time for additional support against future tremors. Columns, capitals, and ill-fated theatrical heads scatter the grounds, fallen from gracing the facade of the stage.

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