Aperlai (Kas- Kekova)
Updated: Jan 23
Aperlai: Where Ancient Trade, Nature, and Royalty Intertwined:
Dive deep into Aperlai's history, where the hues of purple signified wealth and its strategic location connected different worlds.
Introduction:
Aperlai, with its ancient name "Aprillai" resonating from the Luwian language, paints a tale of streams and straits. This modest port city, nestled at the start of the elongated Asar bay on the Sıcak Peninsula, still echoes tales of its glorious past.
Historical Significance of Aperlai:
1. Ancient Records: Late period scholars, like Gaius Plinius Secundus (more famously known as Pliny the Elder), have made mentions of Aperlai in their chronicles, underscoring its significance.
2. Silver Coins: Minted in the Lycian language, these coins not only highlight Aperlai's existence before the formation of the Lycian Union but also give insights into its thriving economy.
3. A Leader in the Lycian Union: While Aperlai was a small city, its importance during the Lycian Union cannot be understated. It led a collective of smaller cities, albeit with a single vote, showcasing its influential stature.
4. "Sympoliteia" with Neighboring Cities: A testament to Aperlai's diplomatic endeavors, it inked a treaty with the likes of Simena, Apollonia, and Isinda, unifying these cities under a shared identity.
The Revival and Tyrian Purple:
1. Earthquake and Restoration: A devastating earthquake in A.D. 141 crippled Aperlai. Yet, the benevolent Opramoas of Rhodiapolis, the era's wealthiest benefactor, breathed life back into the city, supporting its rebuilding efforts.
2. The Radiance of Tyrian Purple: This reddish-purple dye, a symbol of royalty and luxury, was a crown jewel of Aperlai. Its production, though expensive, was a significant trade avenue for the city. This exclusive color, sought after by nobles across the world, was produced here and shipped to far-off lands, bringing affluence to the city's inhabitants.
Conclusion:
Aperlai stands as a silent witness to an era where vibrant dyes were symbols of opulence and where small port cities held immense geopolitical importance. As blue waters lapped its shores, the city thrived in the vibrant shades of Tyrian purple, creating a legacy that continues to inspire.
