1. The Importance of Cultural Heritage

The Göcek–Fethiye region carries the traces of the ancient Lycian civilization, ancient cities, rock tombs, submerged structures, and the intertwined Greek–Turkish cultural heritage. Cultural heritage is non-renewable; once damaged, it cannot be restored. Preserving this heritage safeguards the region’s identity, tourism sustainability, and long-term economic strength.

2. Types of Cultural Heritage in the Region

- Lycian Rock Tombs (Amintas, Kaunos, Tlos)
- Ancient cities and ruins
- Lycian Way (UNESCO Tentative List)
- Submerged Roman structures (Cleopatra’s Bath)
- Greek architecture (Kayaköy)
- Traditional agriculture and beekeeping culture
- Cultural landscape of Göcek bays (Bedri Rahmi motif)

3. How to Protect Cultural Heritage

Physical Protection:
- Do not touch, scratch, or write on historical surfaces
- Do not climb on ruins
- Do not remove stones, ceramics, shells, or other findings
- Avoid contact with underwater remains

Environmental Protection:
- Avoid excessive light and noise
- Do not light fires
- Do not uproot plants in ancient sites
- Do not leave litter

Cultural Respect:
- Visit quietly
- Prefer guided tours
- Be mindful when taking photographs

Legal Protection:
- Comply with the Law on Underwater Cultural Assets
- Do not remove any archaeological objects from the sea

4. The Role of Businesses (For Skopea Inn & Tarhun)

Hotel:
- Provide guests with cultural heritage information
- Encourage guided tours
- Ensure that decorative items respect cultural property laws
- Remind guests of sensitive zones during nature walks

Tarhun:
- Preserve the stories of local products
- Reflect local culture respectfully in menus
- Present cultural values appropriately in events

5. Simple Rules for Locals and Tourists

- Look but don’t touch
- No climbing in historical areas
- No collecting stones or ancient pieces
- Do not write on walls in Kayaköy
- Do not climb the walls of Cleopatra’s Bath
- Restrict drone use to permitted areas

6. The Economic Impact of Cultural Heritage

- Attracts high-income cultural tourism
- Strengthens sustainable tourism
- Expands the local economy year-round
- Authentic culture creates a stronger brand value than artificial attractions

7. Final Message

Cultural heritage is not just about old stones; it is the memory and identity of a community. This heritage does not belong to us—we are merely its custodians. Every act of respect we show is the greatest gift we can offer to the region’s future.