With evidence found during archaeological research of the Castle of St Peter, buildings dated back to 1100 BC have been found giving Bodrum a truly ancient town status. Things have progressed a little since then and Bodrum has developed both culturally and obviously in size with the time of the Ottoman Empire being a particularly fascinating period. The harbour is particularly engaging nowadays with its imposing view of the Castle and the numerous gulets anchored around the quayside. At night the Castle of St Peter is spectacularly illuminated is is a hive of activity with people enjoying the fine dining. In the city centre you’ll find one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Tomb of King Mausolus created as a memorial for the King.
In the castle is an underwater archaeological museum, housing wonderful exhibits. Construction of the castle began in the 1400s by the Crusaders, and the Knights made use of materials from the tomb of King Mausolus, it took over one hundred years to complete. Bodrum Castle is a place that definitely should be visited, and is also the site of the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Caria was ruled over by King Mausolus between 377 to 353 BC on behalf of the Persians although in practical terms it was largely independent. On his death in 353 BC, his Queen, Artemisia II of Caria, who also happened to be his sister, was devastated and tasked Greek architects Satyros and Pythis along four sculptors Bryaxis, Scopas, Leochares and Timotheus to build a tomb, for him that would also be a monument. The is became of the Seven Wonders of the World and lead to the adoption of the word Mausoleum.
The amphitheatre cut into the rocky hillside just outside Bodrum combines architecture from both the time of king Mausolus and later modifications added by the Romans. Having a seating capacity of around 13,000 and built during the Carian reign in the Hellenistic age of around 330 – 30 BC. It has the typical construction of most ancient amphitheatres which consists of the the stage (the Skene), the half-oval (the Orchestra) and the audience seating (the Cavea). Dating back to the time of Mausolus, this is one of the oldest theatres in Asia Minor. You’ll even find names inscribed into the seats indicating the people who helped to pay for the theatre. You will find it on the main Bodrum to Gumbet road and is still in active use today as there are often shows and concerts still held today!
Another of the great Seven Wonders of the World was the Temple of Artemis which was to found in the city of Ephesus which was one of the great cities of the Greeks. Today, Ephesus is one of the major tourist attractions not only in the region but in the whole of Turkey. With several biblical figures, including St. Paul, St. John the Evangelist and the Virgin Mary associated with Ephesus it is also a sacred place for many Christians.
Along the coast and heading west from Bodrum you will find Turgutreis. Quietly away from the hustle and bustle of Bodrum but close enough if you just fancy a day or night out. You’ll still find that village atmosphere but now it also has the extremely smart marina with its beautiful shopping centre. Between Bodrum and Turgutreis is some excellent shopping with excellent furniture, electrical and hardware shops plus the exquisite Oasis shopping mall.
Bitez has something to offer almost everyone. It is a charming picturesque resort where holidaymakers can either relax on the beach or try out energetic water sports. Bitez lies on a bay, a few kilometres west from Bodrum, attracting an older, more upmarket crowd. The gently-sloping coarse-sand beach has wooden piers for swimming and is lined with whitewashed hotels and resort villas, whilst also playing host to a popular windsurfing and sailing school – its sheltered cove and shallow water are perfect for beginners. Bitez is known as the windsurfing capital of Turkey, which means there is very often a cooling breeze to counter the very hot temperatures experienced during July and August.
Bodrum Holidays are the perfect blend of fun and relaxation. But if you’re looking for somewhere to stay then you need look no further than our beautiful Turkey Holidays apartment which has stunning views over Lake Tuzla.
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