KAUNOS (city in Caria)
Ancient city in Turkey
- Kind of place
- City
- Region
- Caria
- Where
- 36.83° N, 28.63° E
The city is positioned beneath the snow-capped mountain of Imbrus and is cradled by mountains. Quintus 8 ¶5 The city possesses a naval arsenal and a nearby harbour. Strabo 14.2.3 Caunus is situated in the region of Caria along the coast between Calynda and the river Calbis. Athenaeus 3.9
Described in the sources
A stronghold named Imbrus is located on a height above the city. Strabo 14.2.3 Caunus was a location that was under the control of the Rhodians. Pliny, Nat. Hist. 35.36 ¶23 The island of Caunus is where Patrocles captured the poet Sotades. Athenaeus 14.13 The location Pisilis lies between Caunus and the nearby river Calbis. Strabo 14.2.2 The city is situated near a clear lake located at the foot of Tarbelus. Quintus 8 ¶5 A deep river named Calbis flows near Caunus and can be entered by ships. Strabo 14.2.2 The inhabitants of Caunus are born with a condition affecting the spleen. Pliny, Nat. Hist. 11.47 ¶1 The great King's fleet was stationed at Caunus during the events described. Pausanias 6.7.6 The son of Lyrcus and Hemithea was expected to eventually come to his father at Caunus. Parthenius, Love Romances ¶2
Stories and history
The inhabitants once revolted against the Rhodians. Strabo 14.2.3 Caunus joined the Ionians after the burning of Sardis. Herodotus 5.103.2 Caunus initially refused to become an ally of the Ionians. Herodotus 5.103.2 The figs produced in Caunus are widely praised by everyone. Athenaeus 3.9 The city is considered unhealthy during summer due to intense heat. Strabo 14.2.3 The city is considered unhealthy in autumn because of abundant fruit. Strabo 14.2.3 The inhabitants are said to have retained their own laws and customs. Strabo 14.2.3 Harpagus captured the city in a manner similar to how he took Xanthus. Herodotus 1.176.3 Romans decided to allow the Rhodians to accept the city back into favor. Strabo 14.2.3 The inhabitants mostly imitated the actions of the Lycians during the capture. Herodotus 1.176.3