Ancient Myndos
Gumusluk Turkey
Gumusluk (Goo-moosh-look), is on the opposite side of
the Bodrum Peninsula, about 20 minutes from Bodrum. We have not been to Gumusluk
since1992 and we are happy to report that it has not changed much in the past
few years thanks to the government's efforts to enforce land conservation. It is
still a lively fishing village with small pensions along the shore and an
abundance of fish restaurants. There is also a significant concentration of
artisans which pedal their works including watercolors, glass, beadwork, batik
items and other original works. At night the village shoreline is illuminated by
candles and accented by colorful table settings and oleanders. It is magically
romantic.
A short wade across the underwater ruins of Myndus to the west of the small
harbor takes you to Rabbit Island. Cute bunnies hop along the path and rest
under the shrubs. A sign on the north shore of the village identifies Gumusluk
as the place where Brutus and Cassius sheltered for a year after the murder of
Julius Caesar in 44 BC. It also tells of the infamous "Brine Drinkers," a group
who mixed their wine with sea water, which caused a very bad hangover and
flatulence, but was considered to be good for the stomach.