Aperlai ancient city faces criticism over environmental pollution

Archaeologist Professor Nevzat Çevik has expressed strong condemnation regarding the environmental state of the ancient Lycian port city of Aperlai in Antalya. Following a recent visit to the site, located between Kaş and Kekova, Çevik reported finding significant amounts of waste and litter throughout the area.

Çevik, a faculty member at Akdeniz University, criticized both local businesses and visitors for the lack of care shown toward the historical site. He specifically noted that the area had become filled with trash, describing the situation as a state of abandonment. His concerns extended to the impact of overnight gatherings and the presence of abandoned boats near the ruins, which include walls, baths, churches, and Lycian sarcophagi. Some parts of the city's quay and surrounding structures currently lie underwater.