Historical records confirm that in 446 B.C., Telmessos was a member of the Attica-Delos Confederation. Situated at the western limit of the Lycian region, it was one of the six most important Lycian cities and served as a significant ancient harbor. In the 4th century B.C., it was conquered by Pericles of Limyra (Finike). Subsequently, in 334 B.C., Telmessos fell under the control of Alexander the Great. Following the Battle of Magnesia, the city came under Pergamon's dominion. Much later, during the 7th century A.D., it fell victim to Arab raids from the sea and was looted and destroyed.
The Temple of Apollo and the theatre, constructed during the Roman era, were almost completely destroyed by the devastating 1856 earthquake. Numerous tomb monuments are scattered across the hillsides. The tomb of Amynthas, son of Hermagios, dating to the 4th century B.C., features impressive Gothic-style decoration and stands as one of the most magnificent examples. The carved wooden door detail on the rock façade is particularly noteworthy. Lycian tombs and structures can be found throughout the ancient city and its surroundings. The Lycian tomb near the town hall represents another striking example of this architectural heritage.