Kas was originally called Habesos or Habesa in the ancient tongue of
Lycia
and later was given the name Antiphellos. It is one of the oldest
settlements in the region of Lycia. Most of the ancient settlement is now
covered by the modern town of Kas. The rock-cut tombs to the north-east of
the town date to the 4th century B.C.
On a rise between the open sea and the hill, which was probably the
acropolis of the ancient city, lies a rock tomb formed like a Doric
structure with Doric triglyphs on the facade. Inside the tomb is to be
found a frieze of dancing female figures. The acropolis was surrounded by
a fortified wall, of which traces are to be seen on the facade facing the
island of Meis (Kastellorizon). No traces of fortifications are to be seen
on the northern or western slopes. To the west of the modern town stands
the ancient theater overlooking the sea. This structure possesses a
remarkable view. It was constructed of local limestone and today the
tribunes and outer walls are still visible although no trace of the skene
is left. On the western edge of the acropolis are traces of a temple.
Tombs of the Roman period are scattered about the
town and along the coast.