Tradition recounts that Patara was founded in the sixth century B.C. by Patarus, son of Apollo. Patara was occupied by the Persians during the 5th century. It opened its gates to Alexander in 333 B.C. Subsequently, it passed into the hands of the Egyptians, Seleucids and Rhodians. Finally, it was included within the Lycian Federation, as one of the 6 great cities within the Federation. Its area was used as the harbour of the city of Xanthos, capital of the Lycian region. In Roman times the city became the seat of Roman Governors of Lycia and one of the most developed ports. The gradual silting up of the port caused Patara´s slow decline. In times of antiquity the city was famous for its Oracle of Apollo, as respected as the Oracle of Delphi. It is also famous as the birthplace of St Nicholas. (Location: Patara)

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