Wonders of Bodrum, Turkey - 7wonders.org 7 Wonders » Wonders of Asia » Wonders of Turkey » Wonders of Bodrum Wonders of Bodrum, Turkey It is a Turkish port at the Aegean Sea in the southwestern region of Turkey, which was called anciently Halicarnassus of Caria and was the town where the Mausoleum of Mausollos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World was. This port is currently one of the most important centers of tourism and yachting of Turkey. It is located in the beautiful peninsula of Bodrum (in the Mugla province) that was home of the famous historian Herodotus one of the authors of the list of the seven wonders. The first human settlements of Bodrum belonged to the Carians and the Dorian Greeks who occupied the zone around 700 BC. Later the city was part of the Persian Empire. One of the satrapy (Persian governor) was the king Mausollos, (ruled 377 - 353), whose tomb “The Mausoleum” was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Today there are only some remains of the fabulous tomb, which are one of the tourist attractions of the city. According to the history, after Mausollo’s death, Ada of Caria took the power in Halicarnassus (the ancient name of Bodrum) and became the Persian satrapy; this woman surrendered when Alexander the Great arrived to Caria, then Alexander entrusted the government of Caria to her; therefore, she adopted Alexander as her son to ensure that the crown of Caria passed unconditionally to him after the Ada’s death. The archeologists have found the tomb of Ada and her remains are currently in the archeological museum of Bodrum. The entrance to the port of the city is guarded by an impressive medieval castle (Castle of Saint Peter), which was constructed by the Crusaders Knights of Rhodes in the XV century. This castle was built thanks to a permission gave by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed; the castle and its town were called Petronium whence the modern name of the city (Bodrum) derives. In the XVI century the city was conquered by Suleyman the Magnificent and became part of the Ottoman Empire.

At the beginning of the XX century Bodrum was a small fishing town until the writer Cevat Sakir Kabaagaccli who was exile under fortress arrest in the Bodrum Castle wrote the book “The Fisherman of Halicarnassus”, which attracted first many intellectuals and tourists later. The region of Bodrum is famous by its clear, tide less, warm seas, where it can find caves, rock formations and many reefs. Bodrum is also the cradle of the underwater archeology, which was conceived in 1959 by the journalist and diver Peter Throckmorton, who dove in several shipwrecks guided by the Turkish sponge fisherman Kemal Aras. Therefore, Bodrum has an important underwater archeology museum which displays a great variety of objects recovered from the Sea. Today Bodrum is known as a popular holiday resort. It is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Turkey. During summer the population of the city grows from 50 000 people to around one million.

There are many yachts and gullets (a two-masted wooden sailing vessel) in the zone, therefore the “Blue Cruise” a famous Turkish Mediterranean classic for yachts in the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea starts in Bodrum As any tourist city, Bodrum is full of resorts, guest houses, hotels, shops, restaurants, shops and bars. The city has also an International airport, which has connections with the main cities of Europe. Besides, there are ferries from Bodrum to the main Greek islands, such as Rhodes or Kos. Bodrum is a nice city full of wonders. Wonders of Bodrum Bodrum - the ancient Halicarnassus The Myndos gate Located on the west side of Bodrum, this is one of the two entrances of ancient Halicarnassus. It was part of the towns wall. The gate is named after the place Myndos because it faces the ancient Myndos place (now Gümüslük). A big handshake should go first to the companies Ericsson and Turkcell, who sponsored the excavation of Bodrum's town walls, which are a remarkable example of ancient Western Anatolia architecture. Only some parts of the city walls remained until today.

An important part of the town wall was the Myndos Gate where the soldiers of Alexander (*the great*) had a hard time to come into the town of Halicarnassus in 333 BC. After they captured the city they destroyed all buildings except the Mausoleum, which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Extensive excavation and restoration has been done by the archeologists to bring this spot from ancient times to be better realized now. It is expected that the whole restoration of the town wall of nearly 4,5 kilometers will take four to five years to complete. According to Arrianus, who describes this gate and and the siege of Alexander the Great in 334, this gate had originally three towers (that's why it was described as 'Tripollion'). It was also mentioned that in front of the gate was a ditch of 8 meters depth and 15 meters long. The middle part of the gate is totally destroyed now but ruins from the two other parts still exist and consist of huge and heavy square stones. Tombs were found here and opened by Newton in the last century. They dated back to Hellenistic and Roman times and were made from burned clay.

When Alexander the Great in the autumn of 334 BC came to Halicarnassus, he had his headquarters somewhere near here. His first attack was towards the Milas gate, which does not exist anymore, but he couldn't succeed. On the Halicarnassus side were fighting the Persian generals Oronbates and Memnon from Rhodos. After a couple of days he tried with the Myndos gate. But again there was much resistance. Then he built a wooden bridge over the 8 m. ditch, packed some of his Macedonian soldiers into wooden towers and carried them close to the gate, but the people of Halicarnassus came out and tried to burn those towers and started fighting, the bridge collapsed after a while and there was a big panic on both sides. Despite the fact that many of their own warriors outside were killed, the Halicarnassus allies Memnon and Oronbates closed the gate, went to the castle and from the harbour they sailed to Kos. Alexander the Great conquered the town then and destroyed the whole place, only the mausoleum he didn't touch, and then he proceeded southwards to Phrygia.

Here - as nearly everywhere in Turkey Archaeologists expect to find more remains underneath the rubble of 17 centuries Bodrum travel guide - Wikitravel Understand[ edit ] Bodrum Castle / the Castle of St Peter Bodrum is the site of the ancient city of Halikarnassus, the location of the famous Mausoleum of Halikarnassus (built after 353 BCE) - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, the ancient monument was destroyed by earthquakes in the Middle Ages - some of the remnants can be seen in London's British Museum. View of the castle and the marina Bodrum is a fascinating place as it has a pleasing contrast between the Ancient city - where there are discernable fragments everywhere in the town -and a playground for rich Turks and an array of foreign visitors. It is one of the centres of the Turkish Tourist industry and is the market town for the Bodrum Peninsula which consists of a number of towns and villages nestling on the edge of the Coast. Until the 1960's the town was a fishing village which changed when a number of Turkish intellectuals gathered and wrote about Bodrum.

Most notable of the these was Cevat Sekir 'The Fisherman of Hallikarnassus', an Oxford Educated Turk who devoted his time to writing and planting numerous plants and trees which continue to dot the landscape of the Town. His book the 'Blue Voyage' describing gullet trips around the Turkish coast, and his descriptions of the astoundingly clear Blue Seas of the Aegean and the delights of a trip around the coasts adjacent to Bodrum inspired a whole generation who have come to emulate his trips. Bodrum has therefore grown as a sailing destination and thanks to its warm but not humid climate has become a top destination for visitors who enjoy the combination of the ancient past together with all the usual tourist paraphernalia. There are large numbers of shops and restaurants - from humble cafes to exquisite Turkish cuisine served by an array of waiting staff. Modern Bodrum strangely seems to have two contrasting sides to it. The east half of the town has a long thin but reasonable beach, which has been added in the last few years, with the authorities trying and largely succeeding in creating a good beach. Behind the beach lay all the bars, restaurants, and night clubs that are typical of Mediterranean resort towns.

This means open fronted bars that do not come alive until 10PM when everybody goes out. As well as some nice beach fronted bars (e.g. cafe del mar being a reasonably chilled out and attractive bar, with attractive staff so that helps) it also has some terrible ones, if you do not like the hard drinking culture of some tourists. It does have some reasonable clubs. Halikarnas being the obvious one as it is huge (4000 people). It also is mostly outdoors and hosts foam parties on regular occasions. The other half of the town is the west side. This mainly revolves around the Marina and Yacht Club. Here life is a little more sedate with shops catering mainly to those who have stepped off their boats. Expensive supermarkets with proper wine and olive oil as well as the obligatory Helley Hanson to be able to purchase your new jacket. There are a number of nice restaurants if you look hard enough and some good clothes shops. Like all resorts being directly on the sea front increases the prices. During the evenings there is a wonderful atmosphere as the locals and tourists all seem to promenade along the sea front.

There are many cultural events - notably the Ballet Festival in August, a wide range of pop concerts at the Castle or in the Amphitheatre which has been restored in the last few years, having been built some 2,000 years ago. History[ edit ] According to Herodotus, born B.C. 484 in Halikarnassus (ancient name for Bodrum), the city was founded by the Dorians. Megarans enlarged the city B.C. 650 and changed its name to Halikarnassus, and then Persians started to rule the city from B.C. 386 A drawing of the mauseloum from the British Museum Halikarnassus had its glorious days, when it was the capital of the Karia B.C. 353. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum, was built there by Artemisia for the memory of King Mausolos. After the Roman and Byzantium rule for ages, Ottomans have conqured the city in 1522, during the time of Suleyman, The Magnificent.

The city was named "Bodrum" after the Turkish Republic was declared. Mausoleum[ edit ] Known as one of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World, The Mauseloum was built by Artemisia, the sister and the wife of King Mausolos, B.C. 355. This work of art, stood on a 21 stepped pyramid which was 46 metres high and carried a horse car symbolising victory on it, had 36 marble columns in Ionian style. The mauseloum was destroyed in an earthquake; and the ruins were used in building of the Halikarnassus Castle. Many statues and reliefs from the mauseloum were carried to The British Museum by archeologist C. Newton, in 1856 and now lies there for public viewing. Climate[ edit ] During winters and springs, November through April, the weather in Bodrum is generally very good with a few heavy shower periods, usually taking place in November, and then some time after new year and the last one in March/April. February is especially pleasant with not too cold nights and the almond blossoming and the abundance of wild ruccola all over the place.

Summers, arriving after April, are as hot as it can get (expect temperatures higher than 40 C) and sunny with no rain. By plane[ edit ] Bodrum-Milas airport is 35 km away from Bodrum and many flight companies operate charter flights to Bodrum in Summer season. There are also Dalaman and Izmir Airports which are 3 hours far away from Bodrum. Bus From the Airport: There are excellent Havas [1] coach services between Bodrum center and the airport. They are timed to match flight arrival/departure times. Ticket Fee from airport to Bodrum Center is 17TL (10TL low season), journey takes 40-45 minutes (20 mins low season). Check the bus times the day before (or on arrival at Bodrum bus terminal) since the buses are infrequent (exactly one per flight) and you will have to take a taxi if you miss the one bus. Taxi costs 170TL (bargained to 80TL). For hassle free arrivals, you can also choose to book a private airport transfer [2] Airport Food and drink costs are astronomical.

For example, a can of soda costs about 5 Euros whereas it would be a fraction of that in the city. Take this into account before arriving at the airport. By boat[ edit ] Bodrum is reached by sea from Kos and Rhodes (Greek Islands). Daily ferryboat services from/to Cos and Rhodes to Bodrum are available during the summer season [3] . By bus[ edit ] There are many intercity bus companies which operate bus services to Bodrum from major cities of Turkey such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Adana, Bursa, Konya, etc... After arriving at any of these cities, Bodrum is reached by bus. By bus: from Istanbul to Bodrum 13 hours; Izmir to Bodrum 4 hours; Ankara to Bodrum 10 hours, Antalya to Bodrum 7 hours.

Sometimes, if you are arriving from a very distant destination (such as Cappadocia), the bus will not arrive directly to Bodrum (inquire about this when you purchase your ticket as they don't always bother to let you know and some buses are direct while other are not) but rather arrive at a nearby town (usually Mugla) where you will change to a smaller bus which will take you directly to the central bus station in Bodrum. The original bus ticket you purchased to Bodrum will usually include this leg of the trip in the price so make sure you do not pay again when the ticket seller comes by to collect the ticket fee on the smaller bus. Get around[ edit ] The best way to get around is by dolmuş, (a shared taxi following a fixed route) one of the cheapest ways of transport in Turkey. Landmarks[ edit ] Bodrum Castle/Castle of St Peter (Bodrum Kalesi), [4] . Tu-Su. Built from 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller, the Castle is easily the most prominent landmark in the city. The castle now operates as a museum, with the focus on the Museum of Underwater Archaeology (see below).

It is one of the world's best preserved monuments dating back to medieval times. The supervision of the construction of the castle was assigned to the German architect Heinrich Schlegelholt, so that the latest developments in castle design were included. The castle is quite pretty and the views are spectacular. 30 TL. edit The Bodrum Amphitheatre is another ancient structure accredited to the reign of King Mausolus, although it wasn’t completed until the Roman era. The theatre is another witness to the great past of Bodrum, and it is one of the best preserved structures of ancient Halikarnassus. You can find this site on the road to Gumbet Windmills in Bodrum - One of the many sights in the Bodrum peninsula are the white windmills, which were made of stone and lined with wooden planks. These windmills were used from the mid 18th century until the 70s as a means to grind flour. Seven windmills can be found on a hill between Bodrum and Gumbet, at the road to Turgutreis and a lot of windmills can be found around the former fishing port Yalikavak.

These historical mills on the Bodrum Peninsula are currently being restored to attract local and foreign tourists. (12/2008) Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM (off-season, likely open till evening in summer). Just a short walk uphill from the marina, the foundations of the Mausoleum (see above) can be seen. 8 TL. edit Myndos Gate - The old city gates, built under the reign of King Mausolus. It was the scene for one of the greatest bloodiest battles during the siege of the city by Alexander the Great. Karakaya Village - This 300 year old town is one of the oldest settlements in the Bodrum peninsula, situated close to Gumusluk. While half of the village is abandoned, owners of the other half restored their houses to its original look. The village has windmills from the 18th century.

Museums and Galleries[ edit ] Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, inside Bodrum Castle, tel +90 252 316 25 16, fax +90 252 313 76 46, [5] . Tu-Su 9AM-12PM, 2PM-7PM, closed Mondays. established in 1961, this great museum has won numerous awards, and displays amazing finds from underwater excavations along the Turkish coast. Includes the famous Uluburun Shipwreck, one of the earliest and richest wrecks yet discovered. Not to be missed. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] During the peak season, the beach that stretches between the castle and Halikarnas is very good for swimming; The water is roped off to prevent boats coming in, and the beach and water is cleaned daily by the restaurants and by the city authorities. Sunbeds and beanbags on the beach are free of charge, although the restaurants that own them will bring you menus or offer you drinks every half hour.

Another option is to go to the nearby beaches of Gumbet or Bitez: Grab a Taxi (15/25 Lira) or go to the bus station and hop on a Dolmus (2/3 Lira). These beaches are much more suited for sunbathing and have actual sand (Bodrum's beach is mostly pebbles, whereas the water at Gumbet & Bitez is very shallow), sunbeds are free of charge and loud music is also there to entertain you. There are several pools with bars that do not charge an entrance fee even if you are not ordering anything. A variety of water sports is offered. You can also hire a private boat for your own trip around the bay. Make sure all passengers have and wear lifejackets and that there is an emergency oar and kit on board. Taking a mobile phone in a plastic bag is advisable. Try snorkeling (go for good quality glass based goggles and kit available in most shops at around 20 Lira). Aquatica - If you are looking for crazy Day Parties and a unique summer experience then try out this Floating Beach Club.

It is located on the sea, in an untouched secluded bay, between Bodrum and Gumbet (access by shuttle boats). This concept offers day parties with international djs, food, drinks, various watersports, and much more. It is open everyday (11am till 8pm) from mid june to mid september. Hamam — Bodrum has a fine hamam , also known as a Turkish Bath, located a few blocks inland from the harbour. Facilities are separated by gender with both sexes enjoying the same hours of operation. It is situated right across the bus terminal. Further afield there are the mud baths to visit. You go down the river on a rickety of chug-chug jump in bit baths of mud and roll around (The fun bit) and then clean off and go home. It’s also easy to go across to Kos or Rhodes for a day or two. When arriving there get a scooter (very dangerous but the best and easiest way to get around). There is of course loads of old architecture to visit around if you like that kind of thing. Windsurfing — There are some good possibilities for windsurfing at nearby Vass .

It has a bit of a hippy air to it with lots of hire stands for boards and sails. Some may find there are just tooooo many people around in high season for it to be much fun, especially when there are competitions running. Pure Windsurfing Centre [6] is another option in the peninsula. There is a great range of windsurfing boards and sails for rent. The bay is nice, quite and safe, so you don't need to worry about an overcrowded location. The bay has cross shore conditions and you can be planning straight from the beach. Perfect for beginners in the mornings and in the afternoons for the more experienced windsurfer. Diving - There are many diving clubs doing daily scuba diving tours all around the region, fees usually include lunch and snacks prepared on boat. Boat Tours - Public boat tours are arranged from almost all the beaches. Alternatively, you can make early reservation with the tour operator of your choice, many tour operators are located in the Bodrum Marina. Boat tours are a good way to explore various beaches surrounding Bodrum, as well as some must see island strands you can't reach by road. Yacht charter in the Aegean Sea.

Take a dolmus from the central bus station(otogar) to the Tropical Camel Beach. It takes approx. 30min. from the bus station to the Camel Beach. You can ride a camel at the camel beach for 10 TL. The sea and the beach is one of the greatest in the Bodrum Peninsula. Tour in the marina and Bodrum Castle. Flaka Cruising, Bodrum, [7] . Bodrum is known for its old traditional wooden sailing boats, so called gulets. Mainly, there is sailed in the gulf of Gokova and Hirasonu, the Blue Cruise or Blue Voyage as the trip is referred to, is done by motor/engine however there are a few charter companies who sail by windpower, one of them is Flaka Cruising and does offer this service by sailing by wind. Gulets can be chartered for your family gathering or by cabin. In the last case you share the gulet with other guests form around the world. edit Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] Bodrum Backpacker'sll, Ataturk Cad. 37A. 10AM-midnight.

This is the only foreign-owned bar in town and serves traditional British food as well as Turkish favorites. It is located one steet back from the main tourist strip and so has more of a relaxed feel. Hostel with rooftop bar.. edit Berk Balik, Cumhuriyet Cad. 167 (directly at the beach promenade near Club Halikarnas), ☎ +90 (252) 313 68 78. Restaurant specialized in fresh fish. The owner and the staff are very friendly and helpful if you are not familiar with the broad variety of fish that is offered. Food is excellent and prices are moderate. edit Kocadon, Saray Sokak 1 (near to Bodrum Marina), ☎ 0252 316 37 05, [8] . Bodrum's most elegant restaurant.Situated in an authentic courtyard surrounded by palm trees and banana plants, this 19th century stone house restaurant offers turkish and international cuisine, seafood and open buffet turkish mezes.Perfect place for a romantic dinner with classical jazz music and soft candle light.

edit Marina Koftecisi, (In front of Bodrum Marina,near Sunger Pizza). Bodrum's best kofte(meatball) and meat restaurant. Delicous food,cheap. edit Sunger Pizza, (on the main street Neyzen Tevfik(No:241) in front of Bodrum Marina). Bodrum's famous restaurant specialized in pizza.You can eat delicious pizza with a reasonable price.Main courses are also great. Very crowded ! Don't forget to register your name in waiting list. edit Terzi Mustafa, (at the Gundogan beach). Bodrum's best fish restaurant, a bit expensive if Rakı is taken as drink. edit Urfa Diyarı, Barlar Sokagi (directly at the beach promenade more to the east end), ☎ 0252 313 32 45, [9] . Offers freshly baked lahmacun and pide at very good prices (lahmacun is just 4 Lira, Pide around 7 Lira). The staff is a bit slow and sometimes unhandy but always friendly and very hospitable.

The lahmacun and pide, however, is always delicious and well worth the money. edit Vira's Restaurant, (In Ortakent-Yahsi Beach), ☎ 0252 348 39 92. Situated on Yahsi seafront, very good restaurant with traditional turkish cuisine, steaks and grills, seafood dishes and pasta/pizza. Try Cokertme Kebabi(Local dish prepared with grilled fillet steak on fried potatoes with a special yogourt and tomato sauce.) edit The home of the doner kebap offers more tasty treats, try local delicatessens for flavoursome vegetable, pulses and meat dishes. Tropicana Beach Club, ☎ +90 252 363 8001, [10] . A Beach club and lounge in Bitez with a good restaurant and full bar. DJ's are performing on the weekends. Mains are 20-30 TRY and beers are 15 TRY.

edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Try Club X on corner of bar street (bouncers at door) which have more sophisticated clients and music is excellent mix of R&B, Dance, Funk and Turkish Pop. Halikarnas [11] is the name of the huge, outdoor night club (the largest in the world, they say). It is for the trendy, young euro crowd and is especially busy in the peak season. However, the entry price is extremely expensive, and your stay at the club will generally be shortened by the ridiculous drink prices and the lack of places to sit down. Kuba is a resto-lounge restaurant with an upscale menu. Fink is an open air club, with high prices. Societic Körfez Bar and Adamik are the oldest and most crowded Rock Bars in town. Great playlist, great drink prices. Kule Rock City is a new and another Rock Bar in Bodrum. Beer is 5€. Cocktails 10€. Smoking is free in some areas. Very crowded. Cannot be entered without a lady partner. Bodrum Marine Club is a club built into a large boat.

The boat is a catamaran style, with a glass deck for the dance floor. At night the boat sets out to a point in the harbour where lights have been set into the ocean floor, pointing up. The local fish have learned that this is a good spot to hang out and get scraps thrown overboard, and you can see them swimming along under the dance floor. Watch out for the ticket hawkers set up on the streets in town though, if you arrive before the peak season hits they will go to great lengths to sell you a ticket. Claims of a "special party" that night will be made, often mentioning a big name European DJ like Tiesto. When you get on the boat you'll find it's just an ordinary night, no special party, and especially no Tiesto. If you go back to the ticket stand the next day to confront the person who made the false claims, they'll suddenly forget how to speak English. Continuing to harass them will result in a grudging admission that there was a "schedule change". I don't doubt that this club fills up and has great parties when there are lots of people in town, but if you're there in late March - early June, don't bother.

Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] Bodrum Backpackers, Ataturk Cad. 31/B, Bodrum (5 minute walk from main bus station), ☎ +90 (0)252 313 2762 ( info@bodrumbackpackers.net ), [12] . checkin: 12PM; checkout: 10AM. The only dorm-style accommodation in Bodrum, located close to the city center and 100 meters to the beach. As well as shared and private dorms, this hostel also allows shoestring-budget travelers to sleep in their roof-top common area. 20-30 TL. edit Honeymoon Hotel Bodrum, [13] . The Honeymoon Hotel Bodum is in the city of Bodrum. 200 metre to the only beach in bodrum centre, 3 minutes to halikarnas disco, 5 minutes to terminal, 5 minutes to bazaar. And they have also a market which open 24 hours.

Hawthorn Suites [14] Stunning panoramic views over the Mediterranean sea, exceptional quality and style and unmatched personalized service await you at the Hawthorn Bodrum, Karaca Resort hotel in Turkey. Su Hotel, [15] . The Su Hotel Bodrum is located close to the harbor in the quieter Western Bay, close enough to walk easily to the city center. The hotel is decorated with local crafts, art and antiques and the courtyard hosts a fine collection of Mediterranean plants and flowers including fig trees, oranges, cacti, pomegrantes to name but a few. Sina Otel, Atatürk cad. No:131 Torba, ☎ +90 252 367 16 23, [16] . A/C suites equipped with satellite/cable television, Internet access, shower with bathtub, IDD telephones and refrigerators with minibar. Some of its facilities and services are swimming pool, Wi-Fi access, Spa and massage service. From EUR 59.00. edit Atrium Hotel, [17] . The Atrium Bodrum is very close to the city center, the central beach and the bar street.

Reasonable prices 100€/room with halfboard meals included. Almost clean. Kavala Studios, [18] . Not being very clean but very cheap and easy access to the city center and bars&restaurants.The rooms are decorated as studio apartments. Casa Dell'Arte Luxury Boutique Hotel Bodrum, Kilise Mevkii Mutlu Sok Torba-Bodrum, ☎ +90 252 367-18-48, [19] . Hotel with a private beach and outdoors jacuzzi. Contemporarily decorated rooms with a TV, wireless internet access. They also have yoga classes. edit Cor1007, [20] . Rooms with air-con, satellite TV, en-suite bathrooms, and balcony (some with a seaview, others overlooking the garden). edit Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, Gerenkuyu Mevkii, Kızılağaç Köyü, Yalıçiftlik (14 km southeast of downtown Bodrum), ☎ +90 252 311-03-03, [21] . Located on the Barbaros Bay cliff.

edit Sedative Bodrum Boutique Hotel & Spa, Emin Anter Bulvarı, Zeytinli Kahve Mevkii No:1, Torba, ☎ +90 252 337-11-21, [22] . checkin: 2PM; checkout: noon. 170€. (N 27° 28’56.69,E 37°5’26.49) edit PURE hotel, Avta Tatilkoyu, Kadikalesi Mevkii, Turgutreis, Bodrum (Between Turgutreis and Gumusluk), [23] . checkin: n/a; checkout: n/a. The hotel is situated near to Turgutreis in Kadikalesi. The hotel is very modern with fantastic facilities including flat screen TV's, Air con, Balcony and onsuite facilities. The holiday village has windsurfing and sailing as well as free dance classes and tennis courts. When booked through Puretourism the hotel price includes windsurfing and sailing for free. from £40. edit Ada Hotel, Bağ arası Mah.

Tepecik Caddesi 124/1 Göl-Türkbükü, ☎ +90 252 3775915, [24] . checkin: 14:00; checkout: 13:00. Ada Hotel with its unique architecture and decoration aims to provide an excellent service in a homely environment. The hotel is built out of carved stones with a purpose to encourage an extinguishing tradition and been designed to evoke a sense of the past while providing all the comforts and amenities of a world-class hotel... edit Kaya Pansiyon, çarşı m. Hükümet str. No 10 (5 minutes from bus station), ☎ +902523165745, [25] . checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Kaya Pansiyon is in the heart of Bodrum, everything you need is just one step away; The Marina, Sea Front, Bar Street, Resturants, Shops and Bus Station are all no more than a few minutes walk on the other hand its peaceful and quiet due to it location.

double room 50€. edit KUUM Hotel & SPA (KUUM Hotel & SPA), Ataturk Cad. No:150 Golturkbuku, ☎ +90 252 311 00 60, [26] . checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Award winning hotel with magnificient rooms and beautiful beach. edit Xanadu Island Hotel, Akyarlar, ☎ 0252 311 11 11, [27] . 5 Star All Suite Hotel on a private peninsula in Akyarlar, Turgutreis Bodrum. edit ant hotel, kadıkalesi mevki turgutreis (next to yelken hotel), ☎ 0252382787, [28] . 10 minutes to turgutreis, 100 metres to the beach , 50 kms to airport is a heaven sorrounded by bodrums native flora and fauna. 65 tl.

edit Stay safe[ edit ] Bodrum has a large stray dog population and large dogs can often be seen roaming around the streets or lying along side a busy sidewalk. For the most part they are harmless. However, on occasion they do harass innocent bystanders so it is advised to use caution when approaching them and instruct children to keep their distance. It has been reported several times that some beach clubs issue ridiculously overpriced bills. Make sure to check the menu before you decide to order. Bodrum – Travel guide at Wikivoyage Understand[ edit ] Bodrum Castle / the Castle of St Peter Bodrum is the site of the ancient city of Halikarnassus, the location of the famous Mausoleum of Halikarnassus (built after 353 BCE) - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World . Unfortunately, the ancient monument was destroyed by earthquakes in the Middle Ages - some of the remnants can be seen in London's British Museum. The waterfront Bodrum is a fascinating place as it has a pleasing contrast between the Ancient city - where there are discernable fragments everywhere in the town -and a playground for rich Turks and an array of foreign visitors.

It is one of the centres of the Turkish Tourist industry and is the market town for the Bodrum Peninsula which consists of a number of towns and villages nestling on the edge of the Coast. Until the 1960s the town was a fishing village which changed when a number of Turkish intellectuals gathered and wrote about Bodrum. Most notable of the these was Cevat Sekir 'The Fisherman of Hallikarnassus', an Oxford Educated Turk who devoted his time to writing and planting numerous plants and trees which continue to dot the landscape of the Town. His book the 'Blue Voyage' describing gullet trips around the Turkish coast, and his descriptions of the astoundingly clear Blue Seas of the Aegean and the delights of a trip around the coasts adjacent to Bodrum inspired a whole generation who have come to emulate his trips. Bodrum has therefore grown as a sailing destination and thanks to its warm but not humid climate has become a top destination for visitors who enjoy the combination of the ancient past together with all the usual tourist paraphernalia. There are large numbers of shops and restaurants - from humble cafes to exquisite Turkish cuisine served by an array of waiting staff.

Modern Bodrum strangely seems to have two contrasting sides to it. The east half of the town has a long thin but reasonable beach, which has been added in the last few years, with the authorities trying and largely succeeding in creating a good beach. Behind the beach lay all the bars, restaurants, and night clubs that are typical of Mediterranean resort towns. This means open fronted bars that do not come alive until 10PM when everybody goes out. As well as some nice beach fronted bars (e.g. cafe del mar being a reasonably chilled out and attractive bar, with attractive staff so that helps) it also has some terrible ones, if you do not like the hard drinking culture of some tourists. It does have some reasonable clubs. Halikarnas being the obvious one as it is huge (4000 people). It also is mostly outdoors and hosts foam parties on regular occasions. The other half of the town is the west side. This mainly revolves around the Marina and Yacht Club. Here life is a little more sedate with shops catering mainly to those who have stepped off their boats. Expensive supermarkets with proper wine and olive oil as well as the obligatory Helley Hanson to be able to purchase your new jacket.

There are a number of nice restaurants if you look hard enough and some good clothes shops. Like all resorts being directly on the sea front increases the prices. During the evenings there is a wonderful atmosphere as the locals and tourists all seem to promenade along the sea front. There are many cultural events - notably the Ballet Festival in August, a wide range of pop concerts at the Castle or in the Amphitheatre which has been restored in the last few years, having been built some 2,000 years ago. History[ edit ] According to Herodotus, born B.C. 484 in Halikarnassus (ancient name for Bodrum), the city was founded by the Dorians. Megarans enlarged the city B.C. 650 and changed its name to Halikarnassus, and then Persians started to rule the city from B.C. 386 Halikarnassus had its glorious days, when it was the capital of the Karia B.C. 353. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum, was built there by Artemisia for the memory of King Mausolos.

After the Roman and Byzantium rule for ages, Ottomans have conquered the city in 1522, during the time of Suleyman, The Magnificent. The city was named "Bodrum" after the Turkish Republic was declared. Mausoleum[ edit ] Known as one of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World, The Mauseloum was built by Artemisia, the sister and the wife of King Mausolos, B.C. 355. This work of art, stood on a 21 stepped pyramid which was 46 metres high and carried a horse car symbolising victory on it, had 36 marble columns in Ionian style. The mauseloum was destroyed in an earthquake; and the ruins were used in building of the Halikarnassus Castle. Many statues and reliefs from the mauseloum were carried to The British Museum by archeologist C. Newton, in 1856 and now lies there for public viewing.

Climate[ edit ] During winters and springs, November through April, the weather in Bodrum is generally very good with a few heavy shower periods, usually taking place in November, and then some time after new year and the last one in March/April. February is especially pleasant with not too cold nights and the almond blossoming and the abundance of wild ruccola all over the place. Summers, arriving after April, are as hot as it can get (expect temperatures higher than 40 C) and sunny with no rain. By plane[ edit ] Bodrum-Milas airport is 35 km away from Bodrum and many flight companies operate charter flights to Bodrum in Summer season. There are also Dalaman and İzmir Airports which are 3 hours far away from Bodrum. From the Airport: There are Havas [1] Shuttle services in accordance with each planes' arriving to the domestic lines of Bodrum Milas Airport. Ticket Fee from airport to Bodrum Center is 17.00 TL, journey takes 40–45 minutes. Food and drink costs at the airport are astronomical. For example, a can of soda costs about €5 whereas it would be a fraction of that in the city.

Take this into account before arriving at the airport. By boat[ edit ] Bodrum is reached by sea from Kos and Rhodes (Greek Islands). Daily ferryboat services from/to Cos and Rhodes to Bodrum are available during the summer season [2] [dead link]. By bus[ edit ] There are many intercity bus companies which operate bus services to Bodrum from major cities of Turkey such as Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Antalya, Adana, Bursa, Konya, etc... After arriving at any of these cities, Bodrum is reached by bus. By bus: from Istanbul to Bodrum 13 hours; İzmir to Bodrum 4 hours; Ankara to Bodrum 10 hours, Antalya to Bodrum 7 hours. Sometimes, if you are arriving from a very distant destination (such as Cappadocia), the bus will not arrive directly to Bodrum (inquire about this when you purchase your ticket as they don't always bother to let you know and some buses are direct while other are not) but rather arrive at a nearby town (usually Mugla) where you will change to a smaller bus which will take you directly to the central bus station in Bodrum.

The original bus ticket you purchased to Bodrum will usually include this leg of the trip in the price so make sure you do not pay again when the ticket seller comes by to collect the ticket fee on the smaller bus. 37°1′52″N 27°25′44″E Map of Bodrum The best way to get around is by dolmuş, (a shared taxi following a fixed route) one of the cheapest ways of transport in Turkey. Additionally there is a bus service that runs in Bodrum, where you can ride for 3 lira. Landmarks[ edit ] 37.03176 27.42947 1 Bodrum Castle/Castle of St Peter (Bodrum Kalesi), ☎ +90 252 316 25 16 . Tu-Su 9.00 - 16.30. Built from 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller, the Castle is easily the most prominent landmark in the city. The castle now operates as a museum, with the focus on the Museum of Underwater Archaeology (see below).

It is one of the world's best preserved monuments dating back to medieval times. The supervision of the construction of the castle was assigned to the German architect Heinrich Schlegelholt, so that the latest developments in castle design were included. The castle is quite pretty and the views are spectacular. 20 TL. 37.04009 27.42108 2 Bodrum Amphitheatre , ☎ +90 252 316 8061 . Tu-Su 8.30 - 16.30. Is another ancient structure accredited to the reign of King Mausolus, although it wasn’t completed until the Roman era. The theatre is another witness to the great past of Bodrum, and it is one of the best preserved structures of ancient Halikarnassus. You can find this site on the road to Gumbet 8 TL. 37.02507 27.41376 3 Windmills in Bodrum . One of the many sights in the Bodrum peninsula are the white windmills, which were made of stone and lined with wooden planks.

These windmills were used from the mid 18th century until the 70s as a means to grind flour. Seven windmills can be found on a hill between Bodrum and Gumbet, at the road to Turgutreis and a lot of windmills can be found around the former fishing port Yalikavak. These historical mills on the Bodrum Peninsula are currently being restored to attract local and foreign tourists. (12/2008) free admission. 37.03804 27.42442 4 Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, ☎ +90 252 316 12 19 . Tu-Su 8.30 - 16.30. Just a short walk uphill from the marina, the foundations of the Mausoleum (see above) can be seen. 8 TL. 37.03624 27.41097 5 Myndos Gate. The Myndos Gate is the only surviving monumental gate of the 7km long ancient city wall of Halikarnassos.

The city walls are the most important remains of the city of Halicarnassus. The gate can clearly be seen with its two towers. The entrance is free of charge. 37.03269 27.42164 6 Ottoman Shipyard & Tower. History of the shipyard dates back to 1775. Here the entire Ottoman fleet was destroyed by the Russian fleet during the Cesme naval battle in 1770. After the battle, the shipyard was established to rebuilt the Ottoman fleet in 1775. There is also a tower at the Ottoman Shipyard and Ottoman cemetery. The tower is used for variety of art exhibitions nowadays. Free admission. Museums and Galleries[ edit ] 37.03127 27.42954 7 Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology (Inside Bodrum Castle), ☎ +90 252 316 25 16 . Tu-Su 9.00 - 16.30.

Established in 1961, this great museum has won numerous awards, and displays amazing finds from underwater excavations along the Turkish coast. Includes the famous Uluburun Shipwreck, one of the earliest and richest wrecks yet discovered. Not to be missed. 20 TL. 37.03024 27.43981 8 Zeki Müren Art Museum, Zeki Müren Caddesi, No:19, ☎ +90 252 313 1939 . Tu-Su 9.00 - 16.30. Museum is devoted to famous Turkish singer and composer Zeki Müren. It's been established in Bodrum as Müren used to live here. 3 TL. Do[ edit ] During the peak season, the beach that stretches between the castle and Halikarnas is very good for swimming; The water is roped off to prevent boats coming in, and the beach and water is cleaned daily by the restaurants and by the city authorities. Sunbeds and beanbags on the beach are free of charge, although the restaurants that own them will bring you menus or offer you drinks every half hour.

Another option is to go to the nearby beaches of Gumbet or Bitez: Grab a Taxi (15/25 Lira) or go to the bus station and hop on a Dolmus (2/3 Lira). These beaches are much more suited for sunbathing and have actual sand (Bodrum's beach is mostly pebbles, whereas the water at Gumbet & Bitez is very shallow), sunbeds are free of charge and loud music is also there to entertain you. There are several pools with bars that do not charge an entrance fee even if you are not ordering anything. A variety of water sports is offered. You can also hire a private boat for your own trip around the bay. Make sure all passengers have and wear lifejackets and that there is an emergency oar and kit on board. Taking a mobile phone in a plastic bag is advisable. Try snorkeling (go for good quality glass based goggles and kit available in most shops at around 20 Lira). Aquatica - If you are looking for crazy Day Parties and a unique summer experience then try out this Floating Beach Club.

It is located on the sea, in an untouched secluded bay, between Bodrum and Gumbet (access by shuttle boats). This concept offers day parties with international djs, food, drinks, various watersports, and much more. It is open everyday (11AM-8PM) from mid June to mid September. Hamam — Bodrum has a fine hamam , also known as a Turkish Bath, located a few blocks inland from the harbour. Facilities are separated by gender with both sexes enjoying the same hours of operation. It is situated right across the bus terminal. Further afield there are the mud baths to visit. You go down the river on a rickety of chug-chug jump in bit baths of mud and roll around (The fun bit) and then clean off and go home. It’s also easy to go across to Kos or Rhodes for a day or two. When arriving there get a scooter (very dangerous but the best and easiest way to get around). There is of course loads of old architecture to visit around if you like that kind of thing. Windsurfing — There are some good possibilities for windsurfing at nearby Vass .

It has a bit of a hippy air to it with lots of hire stands for boards and sails. Some may find there are just tooooo many people around in high season for it to be much fun, especially when there are competitions running. Pure Windsurfing Centre [3] is another option in the peninsula. There is a great range of windsurfing boards and sails for rent. The bay is nice, quite and safe, so you don't need to worry about an overcrowded location. The bay has cross shore conditions and you can be planning straight from the beach. Perfect for beginners in the mornings and in the afternoons for the more experienced windsurfer. Diving - There are many diving clubs doing daily scuba diving tours all around the region, fees usually include lunch and snacks prepared on boat. Boat Tours - Public boat tours are arranged from almost all the beaches. Alternatively, you can make early reservation with the tour operator of your choice, many tour operators are located in the Bodrum Marina. Boat tours are a good way to explore various beaches surrounding Bodrum, as well as some must see island strands you can't reach by road. Yacht charter in the Aegean Sea.

Windward Islands [4] , one of the worlds largest yacht charter companies, can take care of all charter requirements, from bareboat to luxury yacht in the Aegean Sea. Operating from different offices worldwide (USA, Spain, UK, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, Caribbean, Hong Kong and Dubai). Rent a car and explore the beauty of Bodrum [5] Take a dolmus from the central bus station(otogar) to the Tropical Camel Beach. It takes approx. 30min. from the bus station to the Camel Beach. You can ride a camel at the camel beach for 10 TL. The sea and the beach is one of the greatest in the Bodrum Peninsula. Tour in the marina and Bodrum Castle, photos with maps [6] . Flaka Cruising , Bodrum. Bodrum is known for its old traditional wooden sailing boats, so called gulets.

Mainly, there is sailed in the gulf of Gokova and Hirasonu, the Blue Cruise or Blue Voyage as the trip is referd to, is done by motor/engine however there are a few charter companies who sail by windpower, one of them is Flaka Cruising and does offer this service by sailing by wind. Gulets can be chartered for your family gathering or by cabin. In the last case you share the gulet with other guests from around the world. 37.03654 27.39437 1 [dead link]Aquapark Dedeman Bodrum , ☎ +90 252 3586161 . daily 10.30 - 17.00 (from May 22 th to October 05th). It is the park with 23 waterslides, a 350 metre wave river, a wave pool, a range of other pools, a great selection of restaurants and a disco. Adult - 21 Euro; Child (7-12 Yaş) - 11 Euro; 0-6 and 60+ are free of charge.

Buy[ edit ] Always haggle for a better (if not half price) deal and go for clothing. Some great quality designer labeled outfits, shoes and trousers (fake or not) are definitely worth the lira being asked. Eat[ edit ] Backpacker Bar & Grill, Ataturk Cad. 37A. 10AM-midnight. This is the only foreign-owned bar in town and serves traditional British food as well as Turkish favorites. It is located one street back from the main tourist strip and so has more of a relaxed feel. midrange. Berk Balik, Cumhuriyet Cad. 167 (directly at the beach promenade near Club Halikarnas), ☎ +90 252 313 68 78 . Restaurant specialized in fresh fish. The owner and the staff are very friendly and helpful if you are not familiar with the broad variety of fish that is offered. Food is excellent and prices are moderate. Kocadon , Saray Sokak 1 (near to Bodrum Marina), ☎ +90 252 316 37 05 .

Bodrum's most elegant restaurant.Situated in an authentic courtyard surrounded by palm trees and banana plants, this 19th century stone house restaurant offers Turkish and international cuisine, seafood and open buffet Turkish mezes.Perfect place for a romantic dinner with classical jazz music and soft candle light. Marina Koftecisi. Bodrum's best kofte(meatball) and meat restaurant. Delicous food,cheap. Sunger Pizza (on the main street Neyzen Tevfik(No:241) in front of Bodrum Marina). Bodrum's famous restaurant specialized in pizza. You can eat delicious pizza with a reasonable price. Main courses are also great. Very crowded ! Don't forget to register your name in waiting list. Terzi Mustafa. Bodrum's best fish restaurant, a bit expensive if Rakı is taken as drink. Urfa Diyarı , Barlar Sokagi (directly at the beach promenade more to the east end), ☎ +90 252 313 32 45 .

Offers freshly baked lahmacun and pide at very good prices (lahmacun is just 4 Lira, Pide around 7 Lira). The staff is a bit slow and sometimes unhandy but always friendly and very hospitable. The lahmacun and pide, however, is always delicious and well worth the money. Vira's Restaurant, ☎ +90 252 348 39 92 . Situated on Yahsi seafront, very good restaurant with traditional Turkish cuisine, steaks and grills, seafood dishes and pasta/pizza. Try Cokertme Kebabi(Local dish prepared with grilled fillet steak on fried potatoes with a special yogourt and tomato sauce.) The home of the doner kebap offers more tasty treats, try local delicatessens for flavoursome vegetable, pulses and meat dishes. Drink[ edit ] Try Club X on corner of bar street (bouncers at door) which have more sophisticated clients and music is excellent mix of R&B, Dance, Funk and Turkish Pop. Halikarnas . Is the name of the huge, outdoor night club (the largest in the world, they say).

It is for the trendy, young euro crowd and is especially busy in the peak season. However, the entry price is extremely expensive, and your stay at the club will generally be shortened by the ridiculous drink prices and the lack of places to sit down. Kuba is a resto-lounge restaurant with an upscale menu. Fink is an open air club, with high prices. Societic Körfez Bar and Adamik are the oldest and most crowded Rock Bars in town. Great playlist, great drink prices. Kule Rock City is a new and another Rock Bar in Bodrum. Beer is €5. Cocktails €10. Smoking is free in some areas. Very crowded. Cannot be entered without a lady partner. Bodrum Marine Club is a club built into a large boat. The boat is a catamaran style, with a glass deck for the dance floor. At night the boat sets out to a point in the harbour where lights have been set into the ocean floor, pointing up. The local fish have learned that this is a good spot to hang out and get scraps thrown overboard, and you can see them swimming along under the dance floor.

Watch out for the ticket hawkers set up on the streets in town though, if you arrive before the peak season hits they will go to great lengths to sell you a ticket. Claims of a "special party" that night will be made, often mentioning a big name European DJ like Tiesto. When you get on the boat you'll find it's just an ordinary night, no special party, and especially no Tiesto. If you go back to the ticket stand the next day to confront the person who made the false claims, they'll suddenly forget how to speak English. Continuing to harass them will result in a grudging admission that there was a "schedule change". I don't doubt that this club fills up and has great parties when there are lots of people in town, but if you're there in late March - early June, don't bother. Sleep[ edit ] Atami Hotel , Cennet Koyu n:48, Gölköy, 48400 Bodrum, ☎ +90 252 357 74 21 , e-mail: info@atamihotel.com .

23km from Bodrum, Atami Hotel is a boutique hotel located in Paradise Bay. Very strict rules (No children, no pets) make for a quiet environment. €100-365. Bodrum Backpackers , Ataturk Cad. 31/B, Bodrum (5 minute walk from main bus station), ☎ +90 252 313 2762 , e-mail: info@bodrumbackpackers.net . Check-in: 12PM, check-out: 10AM. The only dorm-style accommodation in Bodrum, located close to the city center and 100 meters to the beach. As well as shared and private dorms, this hostel also allows shoestring-budget travelers to sleep in their roof-top common area. 20-30 TL. Honeymoon Hotel Bodrum . 200 metres to the only beach in Bodrum centre, and they have also a market which open 24 hours. Su Hotel . Close to the harbour in the quieter Western Bay, close enough to walk easily to the city center.

The hotel is decorated with local crafts, art and antiques and the courtyard hosts a fine collection of Mediterranean plants and flowers including fig trees, oranges, cacti, pomegranates, to name but a few. Sina Otel , Atatürk cad. No:131 Torba, ☎ +90 252 367 16 23 . A/C suites equipped with satellite/cable television, Internet access, shower with bathtub, IDD telephones and refrigerators with minibar. Some of its facilities and services are a swimming pool, Wi-Fi access, spa and massage service. From €59. Atrium Hotel (Very close to the city center). Almost clean. €100/room with halfboard meals included. Kavala Studios . Not very clean but very cheap and easy access to the city center. The rooms are decorated as studio apartments. Casa Dell'Arte Luxury Boutique Hotel Bodrum , Kilise Mevkii Mutlu Sok Torba-Bodrum, ☎ +90 252 367-18-48 . Hotel with a private beach and outdoors jacuzzi. Contemporarily decorated rooms with a TV, wireless internet access.

They also have yoga classes. Cor1007 . Rooms with air-con, satellite TV, en-suite bathrooms, and balcony (some with a seaview, others overlooking the garden). Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay , Gerenkuyu Mevkii, Kızılağaç Köyü, Yalıçiftlik (14 km southeast of downtown Bodrum on the Barbaros Bay cliff), ☎ +90 252 311-03-03 . Bodrum-Bodrum-Turkey, pictures, maps, lots of information on the famous turkish holiday Explore more in our top navigation The sun shines differently here. The nights are longer, the drinks more enjoyable. And then there is love in Bodrum ... You have to experience it to truly understand the attraction of Bodrum. Situated on a beautiful peninsula, Bodrum, home of the famous Greek historian Herodotus, is these days better known as a popular holiday resort. Enchanting villages of houses painted in white and trimmed with purple bougainvillea together with miles of sandy beaches and ideal locations for water sports. Bodrum casts a magic spell.

It exerts a lasting fascination on everyone who visits, irrespective of age, nationality or sex. Bodrum retains its charm despite the crowds and development. Women feel more beautiful, men feel more intriguing. This is Bodrum's spell. Two meters under the narrow streets of Bodrum lies 5000 years of history. A few monuments attest to this history: the castle, the Myndus Gate, the Roman theatre and the Mausoleum. We have put together a wealth of information about Mausoleum . Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, was the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of King Mausolus' Tomb, the Mausoleum (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbour, the Bodrum Castle, or the medieval castle of St. Peter, is a fine example of 15th-century crusader architecture, and has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, with remains dating as far back as the Bronze Age.

Belly Dance - as in 1001 night The town's charm is well-known, attracting a diverse population of vacationers who stroll along its long palm-lined waterfront, while elegant yachts crowd the marina. Not far from town, you can swim in absolutely clear, tideless, warm seas. Underwater divers, especially, will want to explore the numerous reefs, caves and majestic rock formations. The waters offering an immense variety of aquatic life. Bodrum has gained the reputation as the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. The evenings in Bodrum are for sitting idly in one of the many restaurants , dining on fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties. Afterwards night clubs (some with live music) and, of course, some of the best discos in Europe keep you going until dawn. The boatyards of Bodrum have been famous since ancient times and today the craftsmen still make the traditional types of yacht: the pointed bow and stern (tirhandil) and the broad beamed and rounded stern (gulette). The latter, especially, is used for excursions and pleasure trips.

The gulette is also used in the Bodrum Cup Race held every October. There are daily ferries to the Greek island of Kos in summer, and a weekly hydrofoil to Rhodes between May and September. see ferry page Bodrum also is South Aegean's prettiest resort for scuba diving, with a yacht harbour and a port for ferries. Bodrum has several dive centers that rent out equipment, arrange excursions and even provide diving lessons for the inexperienced individual, eager to try out this underwater sport. see activities . A different spectacle in Bodrum is its marina, which is a busy place hosting elegant yachts that come from all parts of the world. Bodrum Cup, a unique race for wooden sailing yachts is held every 3rd week in October. The reputation of Bodrum's boatyards dates back to ancient times, and today, craftsmen still build the traditional yachts: the well known Bodrum Gulet Bodrum is the one of the starting points for an unforgettable ï¿½Blue Cruiseï¿½ (or 'Mavi Yolculuk'as it is called here) along the turquoise coast of the Gï¿½kova Gulf or down to Marmaris.

Shopping makes a delight in Bodrum. Leather goods of all kinds, natural sponges and the local blue glass beads (the Boncuk) are among the bargains to be found in the friendly little shops along the narrow, white-walled streets. Charming boutiques offer kilims, carpets, sandals and embroidery as well as original fashions. Bodrum | Bodrum Temizlik – Bodrum Cleaning Contat Us Bodrum Bodrum (from Petronium), formerly Halicarnassus (Turkish: Halikarnas, Ancient Greek: Ἁλικαρνασσός ), is a Turkish port town in Muğla Province, in the southwestern Aegean Region of the country. It is located on the southern coast of Bodrum Peninsula, at a point that checks the entry into the Gulf of Gökova, and it faces the Greek island of Kos. Today, it is an international center of tourism and yachting. The city was called Halicarnassus of Caria in ancient times. The Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was here.

Bodrum Castle, built by the Crusaders in the 15th century, overlooks the harbor and the International Marina. The castle grounds includes a Museum of Underwater Archeology and hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year. The first recorded settlers in Bodrum region were the Carians and the harbor area was colonized by Dorian Greeks as of the 7th century BC and the city later fell under Persian rule. Under the Persians, it was the capital city of the satrapy of Caria, the region that had since long constituted its hinterland and of which it was the principal port. Its strategic location ensured that the city enjoyed considerable autonomy. Archaeological evidence from the period such as the recently discovered Salmakis (Kaplankalesi) Inscription, now in Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, attest to the particular pride[clarification needed] its inhabitants had developed [1]. A famous native was Herodotus, the Greek historian (484-420 BC). Mausolus ruled Caria from here, nominally on behalf of the Persians and independent in practical terms for much of his reign between 377 to 353 BC.

When he died in 353 BC, Artemisia II of Caria, who was both his sister and his widow, employed the ancient Greek architects Satyros and Pythis, and the four sculptors Bryaxis, Scopas, Leochares and Timotheus to build a monument, as well as a tomb, for him. The word “mausoleum” derives from the structure of this tomb. It was a temple-like structure decorated with reliefs and statuary on a massive base. It stood for 1700 years and was finally destroyed by earthquakes.[citation needed] Today only the foundations and a few pieces of sculpture remain. Alexander the Great laid siege to the city after his arrival in Carian lands and, together with his ally, the queen Ada of Caria, captured it after heavy fighting. Crusader Knights arrived in 1402 and used the remains of the Mauseoleum as a quarry to build the still impressively standing Bodrum Castle (Castle of Saint Peter), which is also particular in being one of the last examples of Crusader architecture in the East.

Bodrum marina The Knights Hospitaller of Rhodes were given the permission to build it by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed I, after Tamerlane had destroyed their previous fortress located in Izmir’s inner bay. The castle and its town became known as Petronium, whence the modern name Bodrum derives. In 1522, Suleyman the Magnificent conquered the base of the Crusader knights on the island of Rhodes, who then withdrew to Malta, leaving The Castle of Saint Peter and Bodrum to the Ottoman Empire.

Question: Bodrum - a Turkish town, is home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. What was its name in ancient times?
Answer: HALICARNASSUS