Mar/100
Bodrum Holidays, Where To Go?
Archaeological evidence in the site where the very attractive Castle of St Peter now stands allows us to officially date building in Bodrum back to 1100 BC, giving it the status of a truly ancient town. Since those days of antiquity Bodrum has developed both culturally and in size, its history dotted with many fascinating gems such as how it flourished during the time of the Ottoman Empire under the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent. The waterfront is exceptional, with striking views of the medieval castle, and numerous wooden sailing boats gulets at anchor. Evenings are particularly special, with the Castle of St Peter illuminated, and frenetic activity on the quayside with guests dining on the gulets and stores being delivered. While over in the city centre, you'll find the Tomb of King Mausolus, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, along with Bodrum Castle, a fine example of architecture from the period of the Crusades.
Within the Castle of St Peter you will also find the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. The Knights of the Crusades started constructions of the Castle around the 1400s using material from the tomb of King Mausolus and taking more than 100 years to finish. No visit to Bodrum would be complete with visiting the Castle and the award winning 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.
Bodrum amphitheatre is a combination of architecture from Mausolus's time, as well as Roman modifications that were added and is an important structure of a bygone era which is cut into the rocky hillside overlooking Bodrum. It was built during the Carian reign in the Hellenistic age (330 - 30BC) with seating for approximately 13,000. Like all ancient theatres, it is made up of three main parts: the Skene (stage), the Orchestra (half-oval part) and the Cavea audience seating. This theatre is one of the oldest in Asia Minor and dates back to the time of Mausolus. Some of the seats are inscribed with names probably those who had helped to pay for the theatre - just like today! The theatre lies on the Bodrum to Gumbet road and is used for concerts and shows during the high season. It is well preserved and definitely worth a visit.
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.
To find the ideal place to stay for your Bodrum Holidays then you need look no further than our beautiful apartment. Turkey Holidays overlooking the stunning Lake Tuzla.