These tombs are the resting place of the Kings of CAUNOS. They are carved from the rock in the style of LYCIAN rock tombs. There are two types of tomb to be found in DALYAN, simple chambers cut into the rock face and more elaborate Temple tombs, there is also a large unfinished tomb. Many tombs were built with false walls placing valuables behind them so as to fool robbers, eventually this was to no avail as all the Tombs were emptied of their treasures.

Rock tombs can be seen along the Lycian coast, FETHİYE has some good examples of these Tombs, sadly of these Tombs including DALYAN are not accessible to the public due to the damage caused by visitors and their locations.

The ancient city of CAUNOS stands midway along the channel. It grew into a major area on the border between Lycia and Caria, the people were said to be famous for their yellowish skin and eyes. Caunos was said to be the son of Miletus and the Grandson of Apollo, he is believed to have fled from the city due to unnatural feelings between himself and his sister. The city sprawls over a broad slope overlooking the sea and delta. At Caunos there is an Acropolis surrounded by the city walls that are Byzantine, a theatre, four temples, an Angora, Roman Baths, Palestra and a Cistern. The demise of the city was due to the harbour that continually silted up which is now 5 km from the sea and marshland, and also disease due to malaria. Rhodes purchased Caunos in the 2nd century, after many wars it went back to Carian rule only to be given back to Rhodes in 88BC. Caunos has a long and varied history and is well worth a visit. You can visit Caunos at any time although it is advisable to avoid the midday sun. First you will have to cross the DALYAN channel via rowing boat then walk up to the city. Caunos can also be visited as part of a day tour.

ADRES: GÜLPINAR MAH. ATATURK BUL. NO:81 DALYAN / MUĞLA / TURKEY

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