Xanthos was the capital of ancient Lycia, sometimes called "the oldest republic in the world." This league of 20 cities was governed by a popular assembly and a president who ruled from Xanthos.
The site is now protected by UNESCO. Although many of Xanthos' most beautiful monuments were taken to England in the 19th century, some fine mosaics are still in situ, and the theater, agora, and acropolis can still be seen.
