BODRUM

According to Herodotus, known as the “Father of History”, Bodrum was founded by the Dorians. Later, the Carians and the Leleges settled in the area. In 650 BC, the Megarians arrived and expanded the city and changed its name to “Halicarnassus”. Bodrum came under Persian control in 386 BC. Halicarnassus experienced its brightest period in 353 BC when it became the capital of the Carian region. During this time, the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built in honor of King Mausolus by his sister and wife, Artemisia.

In 192 BC, Bodrum came under Roman control but did not experience significant development during this period. It came under the rule of the Byzantines in 395 BC, of the Turks in the 11th century, of the Byzantines again during the First Crusades, and back of the Turks again in the 14th century. In 1407, Bodrum was taken by the Knights of Rhodes, and it became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1523 during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. After the establishment of the Republic, the city was named “Bodrum.”

Main Historical and Archaeological Destinations

Bodrum Castle and Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum

Bodrum Castle is a historical structure built by the Knights of Saint John in 1407. During the Ottoman period, the Castle served as a military base and prison. It was opened to visitors as the “Bodrum Museum” in 1964 and was renamed the “Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology” in 1981. This museum, representing a first in Türkiye in the field of underwater archaeology, is one of the few examples worldwide. Bodrum Castle continues to be a centre of attraction for local and foreign tourists with its historical and architectural significance and magnificent view.

Bodrum Mausoleum/Mausoleum of Halicarnassus

The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, built in honor of King Mausolus by his wife and sister Artemisia, is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This grand tomb is notable for its combination of Greek architectural columns and the pyramid-shaped roof of Egyptian architecture. The term “mausoleum” has become a general term for similar monumental tombs due to the significance of this structure. Mausolos, the satrap of Caria, probably started the construction of the Mausoleum in 355 BC. After his  death in 353 BC, his wife and sister Artemisia continued the work, and following her death in 351 BC, Mausolus’ other siblings carried on with the construction. It is believed that the project was left unfinished around 340 BC due to the satrapal struggle between Pixodarus and Ada.

Ancient Theatre / Bodrum Ancient Theatre

Bodrum Ancient Theatre is one of the most significant archaeological remains from the Hellenistic period and represents an important part of Bodrum’s historical heritage. With an impressive capacity of approximately 13,000 spectators, this theatre is notable for its size and structure. It consists of three main components: the Stage, the Orchestra, and the Seating Area.

Myndos Gate

The Myndos Gate, one of the two main entrances to Halicarnassus, is located in the western part of Bodrum. This gate marks the point where the road leading to the capital reaches today’s town of Myndos. Only the remains of the walls have survived to this day. Alexander the Great entered the city through this gate in 333 BC during his siege of Halicarnassus. Facing strong resistance, Alexander ultimately conquered Halicarnassus but destroyed all structures except for the Mausoleum.

Ottoman Shipyard

The Ottoman Shipyard is located in northwest of Bodrum’s harbor, the west of Karada Marina. Today, behind the old shipyard, there is an Ottoman cemetery that contains the tombs of the Nameless Horseman and the Ottoman Mariner Cafer Pasha.

It is estimated that the Bodrum Shipyard was established in 1115. According to archival documents, the first ship built in Bodrum was launched in 1784, with the wood for the vessel sourced from the mountains around Bodrum.

Today, small-scale shipyards scattered throughout the Bodrum Peninsula produce wooden boats that generate significant interest and enthusiasm among both local and foreign maritime enthusiasts.

Main Bays and Beaches

Torba

Torba is a peaceful village located 5 km from Bodrum. At this charming bay, where the green of pine and olive trees meets the clear sea, boat tours are available to such destinations as Didim, Miletus, and Priene. Torba stands out for both its natural beauty and places to visit.

Göltürkbükü

Gölköy, located in 13 km north of Bodrum, is a region notable for its natural beauty. This natural wonder, where pine, mandarin, and palm trees meet the cool sea, stands out with its rich vegetation and peaceful atmosphere.

Gündoğan Bay

Gündoğan Bay is located 18 km from Bodrum and is a region that has preserved its natural beauty. This bay, with minimal human intervention, is renowned for its mandarin orchards and stands out for its pristine natural charm.

Yalıkavak

Yalıkavak is a village located in 18 km from Bodrum, on the northwest of the peninsula. Known for its windmills, clean sea, fresh fish, and citrus fruits, Yalıkavak is also notable for being the home of some of the most renowned sponge divers.

Recommended Activities

Bodrum International Jazz Festival (Summer Season)

The Bodrum Cup (Autumn Season)

International Bodrum Ballet Festival (Summer Season)

Marinas and Ports/Airports

Bodrum has 6 private marinas and 5 public ports.

Possible transportation to Bodrum-Milas-Yatağan-Kavaklıdere-Menteşe and Ula districts via Milas-Bodrum International Airport.