Bodrum
Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the Aegean Sea in southwestern Turkey, Bodrum is a captivating coastal town renowned for its blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
With a history dating back thousands of years, Bodrum has been a crossroads of civilizations, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Byzantines and Ottomans. Its strategic location along the ancient trade routes of the Mediterranean has shaped its rich cultural heritage, evident in its archaeological treasures and architectural marvels.
At the heart of Bodrum lies its iconic landmark, the Castle of St. Peter, a magnificent fortress built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century. Today, the castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks in the surrounding waters.
Bodrum’s charming old town, with its winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and colorful bougainvillea, exudes an irresistible charm. Visitors can explore bustling bazaars, boutique shops, and quaint cafes, immersing themselves in the town’s laid-back atmosphere and vibrant cultural scene.
The town’s vibrant nightlife is legendary, with beachfront bars, clubs, and restaurants pulsating with energy until the early hours of the morning. Whether sipping cocktails at a waterfront lounge or dancing under the stars at a beach party, Bodrum offers endless opportunities for entertainment and relaxation.
Bodrum’s stunning coastline is dotted with idyllic beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The nearby Bodrum Peninsula is home to picturesque villages, olive groves, and vineyards, inviting visitors to explore its scenic landscapes and traditional way of life.
For those seeking adventure, Bodrum offers a myriad of outdoor activities, from sailing and diving to hiking and horseback riding. The Bodrum Peninsula is also home to the ancient city of Halicarnassus, once a flourishing center of culture and learning, now a treasure trove of archaeological ruins and historical sites.
Whether exploring its ancient wonders, soaking up its vibrant culture, or simply basking in its natural beauty, Bodrum captivates visitors with its irresistible charm and timeless allure, promising an unforgettable journey along the turquoise coast of Turkey.
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SITES
OLD TOWN
SCENIC SPOTS
Castle of St. Peter
Enter the Castle of St. John to enjoy one of the world’s great museum experiences. Built in the early 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller, the castle spans an incredible 30,000 square feet at its base. It’s so grand, in fact, the Knights had to use materials taken from the legendary Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, the castle and its exhibits proudly take visitors from Turkey’s Bronze Age through Roman times and into the Byzantine era. Behold its five imposing towers – the English Tower, the Italian Tower, the French Tower, the German Tower and the Snake Tower. Visit Carian Princess Hall and view the supposed remains of Princess Ada, sister of the great King Mausolos, who died around 325 BC. Some of the castle’s most fascinating finds, highlighted by a Roman shipwreck and amphora exhibition, are found within its acclaimed Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Myndos Gate
Since no scientific excavations have been carried out in the Leleg cities of the classical era, including the city of Myndos, detailed information has not been obtained. One of the cities frequently mentioned by ancient writers is the city of Myndos founded by Mausolus, known today as Gümüşlük.It is possible to come across the legendary Myndos Gate and the dusty remains of the once great moat where countless people died and drowned during the bloody siege of Alexander the Great.
Ancient Iassos
Iassos has been inhabited since the earliest days of history due to its privileged location, its spectacular marble and its abundant fisheries. The city was theoretically founded in the 9th century BC by Greek colonists from Argos and later inhabited by immigrants from Miletus. However, Italian archaeologists have found Minoan houses and Mycenaean pottery, suggesting that the area was inhabited long before the arrival of the Greeks. Iassos is mostly located on a rocky island, except for the city walls and necropolis. One of its most impressive monuments is an enormous mausoleum – a temple tomb in the Syrian style. The burial chamber is covered by a small Corinthian temple, perched on a ten-step crepidoma. Numerous skeletons were discovered in the tomb, which dates back to the Roman period.
Bodrum Amphitheater
Bodrum Ancient Theater is a magnificent example of classical Greek theatre. A place where you can be part of the audience at a live show and follow in the footsteps of ancient gladiators. It is also a place where you can enjoy the magnificent view of Bodrum, the coastline and the marina.
Mausoleum
The ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus are the oldest and most important treasure of Bodrum. Artemisia II had the tomb built in honor of her husband, King Mausolos. The modern general term for a large tomb is derived from his name. The entire structure was more than 150 meters tall and contained frescoes and other objects of art; some of these are currently on display at the Museum of London.
The Windmills of the Bodrum
The windmills of the Bodrum Peninsula is one of the greatest sights overlooking the Bodrum & Gumbet Bay and the Aegean. The windmills date back to 18th century and they were used till the 70s. Seven of the windmills are located on the hill top between Gumbet and Bodrum. This location is really mesmerizing that the visitors are able to see the Gumbet Bay on one side, and the Bodrum bay on the other side.
