Ancient Halicarnassus
St. John's Castle, Bodrum
Castles, minarets, tall masts, the sun shimmering on the sea, boat-filled
harbors and mosques are inescapable images of Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus. But
there is much more. Bodrum is a thriving summer retreat for Turkey's fun loving
elite - so be prepared for some fun - and a slight change in sleeping habits!
Bodrum does not sleep until dawn - I have even seen toddlers walking around the
streets at 3am eating ice cream (as if this were the normal hour to have a
snack!). The exciting night life of Bodrum, with its countless bars and stores
open till after midnight will surely provide your evening's entertainment. Don't
miss the Turkish Bath, Underwater Museum, St. John's Castle and the Windmills -
you can walk to it all. Did you know that one of the Seven Wonders of the
Ancient World is in Bodrum? The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus is 3
blocks up the hill from the marina! Overnight at Bodrum Marina.
The history of Bodrum, known as Halicarnassus goes back to the 13th century BC.
Excavations reveal the 5000 year old history of this town. Ancient Halicarnassos,
Bodrum with its whitewashed square houses and subtropical gardens and birthplace
of Herodotus, the father of History. He was born in 482 B.C. in the city then
called Halicarnassus and reports that Halicarnassus was founded around 1000 B.C.
by the Dorians. Many civilizations found their home here from the Carians, to
the Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, and Ottomans to the present day Turks (who
apparently don't quit dancing in the local discos and nightclubs till the sun
comes up).
So much to do here! The Bodrum Castle, or St. John's Castle and the Tomb of
Mausolus should not be missed. This is the place to do a
Turkish Bath or Hamam. Shopping is great (shops are open until 2-3am).
Nightlife is extraordinary. Bodrum boasts the largest outdoor disco in the world
- Halikarnus. On Friday and Saturday nights they have "Foam Dancing" which you
"must see" - but get ready for a late night - foam dancing doesn't start
until 3am!! If there are just a few of you, go to the second level and you can
usually find a table. If everyone decides to go I suggest you get a table on the
main floor (this is a way better, but more expensive option).
Market Day: Friday(Fruits and Vegetables) & Saturday(Clothing, etc)
Other Bodrum Links...
The Bodrum Castle
- Museum of Underwater Archeology
The Tomb of
Mausolus - One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World