Bodrum is one of Turkey’s famous holiday resorts. It is preferred by many people during the summer months due to its natural beauty, green areas, beaches, the unique clarity of its sea, and its location. Being a peninsula surrounded by seas, Bodrum offers its visitors unforgettable moments. However, this town is not limited to its natural beauty alone; it also has a rich historical past. As it has been a host to many civilizations, it carries architectural structures left from them from the past to the present. Among these structures are the Ancient Theater, Mausoleum, Myndos Gate, Pedasa Ancient City, and Bodrum Castle.
You can find detailed descriptions of the historical sites that you must see in Bodrum under the following headings:
- Bodrum Castle
- Mausoleum
- Myndos Gate
- Ancient Theater
- Bodrum Maritime Museum
- Pedasa Ancient City
Bodrum Castle
Bodrum Castle, located among the historical sites in Bodrum, was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. The purpose of building the castle was to protect Bodrum against the Ottoman Empire. During that period, the castle was known as the Castle of St. Peter. In accordance with its purpose, the castle resisted the Ottoman attacks in the 15th century. However, with the Siege of Rhodes in the 16th century, it came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. After falling under Ottoman rule, the castle was used as a mosque for many years. Today, it has been open to visitors as the Underwater Archaeology Museum since 1960.
Mausoleum
The Bodrum Mausoleum Museum, built by a person named Mausolus during the ancient period, is a monument and tomb. This structure, known as the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, began to be built upon the person’s request even before his death. It is possible to explore Greek and Egyptian architectural influences in the design of this monument. This monument museum is an important point among the historical sites that you must see in Bodrum.
Myndos Gate
The Myndos Gate, built in the 4th century BC, is one of the entrance gates of the city. It was built to protect the city and provide a defensive function. Moreover, many historical artifacts with Hellenistic and Roman traces can be seen around this gate, including tombs. Myndos Gate is visited by both local and foreign tourists as one of Bodrum’s historical sites.
Bodrum Ancient Theater
Among the historical sites that you must see in Bodrum is the Ancient Theater, which was built in the 4th century BC during the Classical Ancient Age. It is one of the oldest theaters in Anatolia. This theater, with a capacity of 13,000 people, is located north of the center of Bodrum. It is also known that sacrifices for Dionysus were made before the performances.
Bodrum Maritime Museum
The Bodrum Maritime Museum is a place that does not have structural historical significance but holds important value due to the exhibits inside. Established in 2010 next to Bodrum Castle, this museum showcases artifacts and remains that represent Bodrum’s historical importance. The influence of Bodrum being a port city can also be observed in the displayed boats.
Pedasa Ancient City
According to historical records, the city believed to have been inhabited by the Lelegians before the Trojan War is the ancient city of Pedasa. Within this city, which is among the historical places in Bodrum, there are tombs, farmhouses, and agricultural terraces. Through archaeological excavations, it is concluded that the structure dates back to around two thousand years BC. After the Trojan War, the people who settled here migrated to different locations.
Museums, ancient structures, mosques, theaters, and much more! Taking ownership of the traces carried by Bodrum from civilizations, preserving them, and experiencing their historical significance will be the most valuable experience for visitors.
