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History Kuanos was founded around the 9th century BC, Kaunos became an important Carian city in 400 B.C. Right on the border with the Kingdom of Lycia, its culture reflected aspects of both Kingdoms. The tombs, for instance, are in Lycian style. When Mausolos of Halicarnassus was ruler of Caria, his Hellenistic influence reached the Kaunians, who eagerly adopted the culture. This mixture of cultures in Kaunos may be seen amongst the ruins of its various archaeological remains: the Carian city wall built by Maussolos, the Lycian and Carian tombs, the medieval walls on the acropolis, a Roman fountain dedicated to Vespasianus, a theater from the 2nd century BC, remains of 4 temples, massive Roman baths and a Byzantine basilica of 5th/8th centuries. Kaunos was threatened by the silting of the harbor after which the city was eventually abandoned. One of the most beautiful features of the site are the rock tombs sculpted in the form of the porticoes of small Ionic temples. Although the builders were Carians, the original occupants of the tombs are obscure but are assumed to have been Kaunian noblemen; in most cases they were vacated and reused in Roman times. The largest one is unfinished, providing a curious glimpse of the method of construction. Things to do in Dalyan.
The captain will arrange to get you a water taxi which will cost about $200.
Most likely it will be our friend Mutlu. This is a long day so be
prepared. Wear a bathing suite under your clothes. Bring a beach towel,
water, sweatshirt, hiking shoes or Tevas, money, camera, hat, sunscreen, etc. You can take a few beers,
wine, etc.
All drinks can go in Mutlu's cooler. You can take everything with you
and leave them on the boat. Mutlu will always be on the boat to watch
over them (but don't bring wallets, just some cash).
Then you will cruise the river and at a bend in the
river, high on the cliff face above, you can see with its magnificent Lycian
tombs carved into the rock. Look for the turtles as you cruise
through the unique bamboo marshes of the river. Stop at Dalyan
for a lunch
of Blue Fin Crab or the local fish delicacy "Kefal" at one of the many fish restaurants along the river
- or grab a Doner Kebab (Gyro) from one of the street vendors. There is an ATM here and the PTT office
where you can
exchange money. The men will have time for a shave and the women can
have their hair washed and a heavenly massage for about $5 at the AYDEMIR BARBER
SHOP (a.k.a. The Chippendales Barber Shop) in the center of town. But don't dilly dally - try to be back in
the water taxi within 1-2 hours because you still have to visit the famous
Thermal Mud Baths.
If you have time, you can stop
at Dalyan Beach for a sunset cocktail, a walk along the beach and swim
before you return. Make sure you don't forget to pack the cocktails! |
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For more information about
Turkey http://www.DestinationCoupons.com/turkey/dalyan/dalyan_index.asp |
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A copy of this information is available onboard the Gundogan for your convenience. |