Abstract:

This article presents some results from the 2011 survey conducted in Central Lycia within the framework of research on the Stadiasmus Patarensis concerning two of the routes (35 and 37) recorded in the SP. The traces of these routes, one leading from Arykanda to Arneai in a westerly direction (Route 35), the other leading from Arykanda to Lesei- (only the first part of the name of the settlement survives) in a south-easterly direction (Route 37), have been established, measured and recorded as a consequence of our investigations. The first route SP 35 passes over the Arykandos Potamos via a double-arched Roman bridge at Çatallar ca. 4 km south of Arykanda, and leads thereafter in a westerly direction, reaching Arneai through Kilepe (Yeşilköy) and the Yazır Beli Pass. Even though our survey shows that most parts of the ancient road have been lost due to the construction of the modern road, some traces can still be followed up to 100 m around the mosque in Yeşilköy. One of the two new incriptions in this article was found in this village. The inscription carved on a funerary altar (currently re-used in the wall of a building next to the mosque) was erected by a slave elected as tomb warden (μνημόδουλος) by her patroness and benefactor Aurelia Zoe. That the ethnicon of the patroness’ husband Neoptelomos is stated as Ἀρυκανδεύς, confirms once again that Yeşilköy lies within the territory of Arykanda as previously mentioned by M. Wörrle, not within the territoryof Arneai. A medium-sized ancient settlement discovered to the north of Yazır is suggested in the article as being one of the sympoliteia partners of Arneai. Along the route, on the northern slopes of Alacadağ, some boundary stones were also discovered and some possibilities concerning the function of these stones are discussed. The first traces of the other route (37) are seen in the east necropolis of Arykanda and can be followed for 500 m with the road’s retaining walls. This road branches off in two directions at Belen Yayla, one leading to Idebessos to the north, the other turning south and leading to Rhodiapolis over Lesei-. In addition to introducing some new farmsteads recorded along this route, it is suggested here that a settlement discovered on a hill at Çayiçi Köyleri is Lesei-, the precise location of which was formerly undetermined.

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