www.dalyan-delta.co.uk


Where is Dalyan?
A brief history of Caunos
Places of interest nearby
Links to other Dalyan sites


The theatre can hold around 10,000 people. It dates from the period of Persian rule, when Mausolus, provincial Governor of Caria, ordered its construction. The elevated position of the theatre offers the best view of Old Caunos, with its variety of temples, churches and fortifications.

The pine trees that are such a feature of the area formed much of the basis for Caunos' prosperity. Production of resin and quality timber was essential for the Caunian dockyards to function. Aside from this, the export of slaves and import of salt were major contributors to wealth.

The port's biggest problem was geological. From the first century AD, silting became apparent: as it had in Ephesus and Miletus. With the declining depth of water, it became hard to manoeuvre ships into the harbour.

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