Founded in 484 BC, Bodrum is located among the districts of Muğla, Turkey. It has a rich heritage in terms of history and culture as it has hosted various civilizations in the past. Additionally, it attracts both domestic and foreign tourists with its natural beauty. Bodrum, which was the capital of Caria in the 7th century BC, was known as Halicarnassus during that period. In the 4th century BC, it came under the rule of the Persians, followed by the reign of Alexander the Great and Hellenistic kings, becoming a gateway for many civilizations. It stands out as a prominent port city. With its historical aspects, Bodrum carries traces from the past to the present in many aspects.
The historical aspects of Bodrum will be discussed through the following headings:
- Historical background of Bodrum
- Geographical location of Bodrum
- Historical sites in Bodrum
- Places to visit in Bodrum
- Traditional crafts of Bodrum
Historical Background of Bodrum
According to Herodotus, Bodrum was founded in 484 BC. However, this date may vary according to some sources. After the Dorians, who were believed to have founded Bodrum, the region was settled by the Carian and Lelegian civilizations. Later, it came under the rule of the Persians and was conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC.
In the 4th century AD, Bodrum came under the rule of the Byzantines, followed by the Turks in the 11th century. Apart from its cultural aspects, it is known as a cradle of trade due to its status as a port city. Furthermore, it is recognized as a meeting point of civilizations for hosting many wars.
Geographical Location of Bodrum
Located on the western side of Muğla, Bodrum is situated on a peninsula. It has coastlines on the north, west, and south, facing the Aegean Sea. Being a peninsula, it does not have any borders except for Milas to the east. This geographical location greatly contributes to the development of the district in terms of maritime tourism.
Historical Sites in Bodrum
Bodrum stands out with its historical aspects as it has been a destination for various civilizations throughout history, both for trade and conquest purposes. These civilizations have created architectural structures for their religious, cultural, commercial, and defensive purposes. Today, a significant number of these structures are open to visitors. The notable historical sites in Bodrum include:
- Bodrum Castle
- Mausoleum of Mausolus
- Ancient Harbor
- Ancient Theater
- Myndos Gate
- Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village
- Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Places to Visit in Bodrum
The historical sites in Bodrum alone are sufficient to plan a trip. In addition, Bodrum offers a rich selection of places to visit. Some of these options include:
- Underwater Archaeology Museum
- Bodrum Maritime Museum
- Zeki Müren Art Museum
- Göltürkbükü
- Gümüşlük
- Yalıkavak
- Bodrum Marina
- Ortakent Yahşi
- Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village
Traditional Crafts of Bodrum
Bodrum is also renowned for its traditional crafts. These traditional crafts are still practiced by skilled artisans in the region and passed down through generations. The traditional crafts of Bodrum include:
- Needlework
- Bodrum fabric
- Weaving
- Glasswork
- Wood carving
- Tin-plating
- Carpet weaving
Bodrum, which is one of the preferred destinations for many people, is also a valuable town in terms of its historical aspects. Therefore, it can be said that it has much more to explore, see, understand, and convey.
