摘要: Justification of Outstanding Universal Value　　This serial nomination includes the unique remains of Lycian civilization which flourished only in this part of the world. These remains include Parliamen

Justification of Outstanding Universal Value

　　This serial nomination includes the unique remains of Lycian civilization which flourished only in this part of the world. These remains include Parliament Building in the capital city Patara, Lycian tombs which have inscriptions about their ancestral cult, fortresses which are mostly situated as overlooking their cities and the sea, temples enlightening the religious beliefs of this nation, ancient houses and city remains which are representatives of the Lycian civic life Also, the organization of the Lycian parliament and proportional election system of the representatives of this parliament depending on the size of their cities were unique in the ancient times. This parliament was also responsible about the financial, economic, religious and legal matters of the Lycian life. Also, the Lycians spoke their own language with their own alphabet which is partly deciphered from the inscriptions found in these ancient cities.

　　Criterion (iii): Lycian Civilization is unique to Teke Peninsula, Mediterranean Coast of Turkey in the world. Lycian League is also unique for being the first democratic union of the ancient times which actually inspired the democratic systems of the modern times. The city states are firmly bounded with this system and this system was assurance of the equal representation of the cities in the parliament. This federation brought strong ties between the citizens in the social life. The political power gained by the Lycians through this federation contributed much to their survival against the invasions by the outer powers of their time.

　　Criterion (iv): Lycian cities are easily distinguished with their characteristic architecture which is very well known for this part of the world and mostly well preserved. Especially the rock-cut monumental tombs are very distinctive in Anatolia and quality of stonemasonry of these people is noteworthy. Lycian cities mostly situated along the seaside on the overlooking hills to the sea and represent the solid relationship of these people with the sea.