Kaunos was an ancient city that straddled the border between Lycia and Caria. Known for its rock-cut tombs and stunning location along the Dalyan River, Kaunos was a key trading post in the region
Kaunos was an ancient city located in Caria, close to modern-day Dalyan in Muğla Province, Turkey. The Calbys River (now the Dalyan River) served as the border between Caria and Lycia. Initially, Kaunos was an independent state, but over time it became part of Caria and later Lycia. It served as an important sea port, with its history dating back to the 10th century BC. However, due to the formation of İztuzu Beach and the silting of the Bay of Dalyan around 200 BC, Kaunos is now about 8 kilometers inland from the coast. The city was eventually abandoned in the 15th century AD, largely due to a severe malaria epidemic and the region’s capture by Turkish tribes.
Kaunos was a significant sea port with two harbors, one located in the south and the other in the northwest. The southern harbor was used until the end of the Hellenistic era, after which it became inaccessible due to drying out. The inner port, known as Sülüklü Göl (“the Lake of the Leeches”), remained functional until the city’s later years. However, as the delta and harbors silted up, Kaunos lost its significance as a trading port and began to decline economically.
According to mythology, the city was founded by King Kaunos, the son of the Carian king Miletus and grandson of Apollo. Although scholars were aware of Kaunos, its location remained a mystery until it was discovered by English archaeologist Hoskyn in 1842. Later, Swedish archaeologist P. Roos defined the city’s boundaries as an independent state.
Kaunos is notable for both its archaeological and ecological significance. It is located in the Köyceğiz-Dalyan Special Environmental Protection Area, offering stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. The ruins of Kaunos sit on terraces near the west bank of the ancient Kalbis River. The city featured significant religious structures such as the Temple of Baselius Kaunios, the Sanctuary of Apollo, and the Demeter Sacred Rocks. On a large terrace known as the Upper City, other important structures such as the baths, theater, and palaestra can still be seen.
The Acropolis, perched 152 meters high, is fortified with Byzantine walls, and the theater on its slopes showcases both Hellenistic and Roman architectural styles. The palaestra and Roman baths were centers of social activity, demonstrating the Roman Empire’s power and influence. The port agora, located near Sülüklü Lake, served as an economic, political, and social hub until the end of the Roman era.
The city walls, built during the reign of Mausolos in the 4th century BC, are remarkable for their size, reflecting high expectations for Kaunos as a prominent marine and commercial port. Though much of Kaunos has been lost to time, its ruins remain an essential site for understanding Caria’s rich history.
Kaunos is near Dalyan in Muğla Province. From Dalyan, you can take a boat across the Dalyan River to the site, which takes about 15 minutes. Once across, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the ruins. Alternatively, you can drive to Dalyan and then take a taxi to the ferry point for easy access to the site.
You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Kaunos. These close-by attractions offer further insight into the rich history of the region and are easily accessible for visitors wanting to extend their journey: