Phaselis was settled by the Rhodians in the 7th century B.C. and for many years was claimed to be the most important port city of the eastern Lycian seaboard. Phaselis has three harbours: the North harbour, the Military or Protected (enclosed) harbour and the South harbour, of which the most important is the latter. A 20-24 m wide avenue runs throughout the city. The western end is the site of Hadrian`s Gate. On either side of the avenue are sidewalks and shops. Close to these can be seen the public places like the baths, the theatre and the agora.