BODRUM CITY GUIDE

BODRUM CITY GUIDE

BODRUM GENERAL INFO

Bodrum city is centered around the old Castle of St. Peter which was called Zephyrion in ancient times. Today the Castle is the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology which is acknowledged as the First and the Best of its kind displaying artifacts dating as far back as the Bronze Age.

• Bodrum Peninsula is located in the Aegean region of Turkey. The Aegean Coast of Turkey is an extraordinary place with its immense unspoiled coastline & warm climate, which offers all year-round sunshine—some astonishing historical sites and natural wonders to have no rival anywhere.
• Bodrum is a kind of unique attraction that the first Christian Church was built, and the art of wine-making was developed there.
• Bodrum and its environs etch a special place in everyone’s heart.
• Over the years, it has become a specially desired place for Turkish people from big cities and foreign visitors to settle.
• There are good letting & health opportunities in the popular areas.

Where is Bodrum:

Bodrum Photos:

History of Bodrum

With its enormous treasure of history-beginning in 4.000b.c. from the native people of the first settlements; Leleg, Dorian, Karian, Lydian, Phrygian, Persian, Roman, Seljuk, Ottoman and finally the Turkish cultures have been noted to have eras of glory that are reflected by archaeologic & biblical antiquities such as agoras, temples, churches and mosques and can be seen on every step you take in.

History of the Aegean -beginning 3.000b.c.

In the first phase of the Anatolian bronze age, from roughly 3000B.C. to 2500B.C., no remarkable developments from the preceding late Chalcolitic era are noticable in the central and eastern towns of the peninsula.
At 2500B.C., there lived in central Anatolia a race of people, the Hatti, whose name has come to us through Hittite sources. They called their kingdom the land of Hatti. As the name implies, Hattusa, the Hittite capital, was originally a Hattic settlement. Royal tombs -with bronze, gold and silver objects of extraordinary beauty and value- were found in Alacahöyük. They were living as farmers and were famous in architecture, sculpture and pottery. They built houses and monumental buildings and illustrated hunting pictures on the walls.

The most important settlement in the Aegean was Troia.

Between 1050-700B.C. The Aegeans had primitive life standarts…

While living in one room, fishing was their main profession. In addition to wheat and barley production vineyards was notable. Every family produced their own food and clothing. No alphabet yet. The folk poets told the legends and mythologycal stories with music instruments in the background.

When they influenced by the eastern cultures took a step forward and developed them in the Classic Age about 600-450B.C. Acquired prosperity through trade, have constructed multi-roomed houses, splendid temples and most importantly they became the creator of one of the best comprehensive cultures in the history advancing in Philosophy, Science and Art.

In Roman Age, between 27B.C.-395B.C. ; “marble” become the main building material and was used in constructions of large buildings with arches which were built on vaults. The stage platform of Theaters was hightened and the surrounding walls enabled full attention to thr playing art. Romans also invented central heating with air flowing through funneled blocks either underground or in walls. They also used this knowledge in thermal baths.

Anno Domini, the Aegean region was influenced by Christanity and Muslim Cultures; Byzantines, Seljuk, Ottomon and finally to Turks. Millions of people shaped the Aegean culture together and today it is still shining in modern Turkey by reflecting it to the world.

Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyateira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.

Antioch, once called the “queen of the east” and known as the third largest city of the roman empire, played a key role in the spread of christianity. st paul began his three missionary journeys from there and it was at antioch that the followers of jesus were first called christians. A cave known today as the grotto of st. peter or the church of st. peter is believed to be where the apostle peter preached when he lived in antioch. in 1963, the papacy designated the site as a place of pilgrimage and also recognized it as the world’s first cathedral.

-Biblical-The Revelation to John

1:11saying, “What you see, write in a book and send to the seven assemblies: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.” Apostles st. john, st. paul and st.peter have all lived and preached in anatolia. About three miles away in the forested mountain above ephesus is the house of virgin mary (meryemana evi), a modest stone house where the virgin mary lived her last days. It is believed that st. john brought mary to this site after christ’s crucifixion. Vatican declared the house of the virgin mary a holy site in 1967.

In this region where the countless events of mythology took place, at almost every turn, you will encounter the ancient cities and many important events in the birth of Christanity occured here.

With its enormous treasure of history-beginning in 4.000b.c. from the native people of the first settlements; Leleg, Dorian, Karian, Lydian, Phrygian, Persian, Roman, Seljuk, Ottoman and finally the Turkish cultures have been noted to have eras of glory that are reflected by archaeologic & biblical antiquities such as agoras, temples, churches and mosques and can be seen on every step you take in.

Later in time, the Aegeans’ who were under the influence of the East, contacted the West and a new Culture was born in the region -which is called Hellenistic. The first Hellen tribe settled in Miletos at 1600b.c. and formed their Kingdom. Aiolles settled between Izmir and Bergama, Ionians between Izmir and Miletos. Dor oriented Hellens were settled in the south western region between Phrygia and Lykia, called “Karia”, and today’s Bodrum Peninsula was in it.

In time, Aka, Ion, Dor people and other Tribes came from north and east. They settled around the land of the Aegean Sea, -which consists of the Palace of Poseidon indeep, who is the protector of the sea.

These people were farmers and very lucky becouse of the fertile land. The product supplies and present food stock created the need for exchange of goods and trade started.

They set sail to form trading colonies. When the expansion of trade created the need to document the exchange information, they begun to use “Hieroglyph” the sacred alphabet, which is composed of picture like symbols.

Turkey’s Aegean shores are among the loveliest landscapes in the country. The magnificent coastline, lapped by the clear waters of the Aegean Sea, abounds in vast and pristine beaches surrounded by olive groves, rocky crags and pine woods. Dotted with idyllic fishing harbours, popular holiday villages and the remains of ancient civilisations attesting to the inheritance of more than 5,000 years of history, culture and mythology. This region offers a holiday with something for everyone – nature lovers, sun worshippers, photographers, sports-enthusiasts, sailors and archaeologists. Along the whole length of the coast, accommodations to suit every taste and price range can be found. 

Because of its geographical location on the world; Turkey has always found favor throughout history, and is the birthplace of many great civilizations.
It has also been prominent as a center of commerce because of its land connections to three continents and the sea surrounding it on three sides.

How to reach Bodrum

Bodrum by air  

Turkish Airlines (THY) has regular flights from/to all capitals and major cities of the world and a fine network of domestic flights.
A 45 minute plane journey from Istanbul, will bring you to Milas-Bodrum Airport, only 35 km from Bodrum. Direct charter flights are also available.
Many experienced travel agencies offer destination information, reservation and ticket sales, boat and car rentals.

Bodrum by bus

There are regular bus services between Turkey, Europe & Middle East.

Bodrum by sea 

Passenger ferries apart from numerous cruises in the Mediterranean, several foreign shipping companies have regular services to the port of Bodrum. There are several car ferries for tourists who wish to bring their cars.
Bodrum Marina is one of the best marinas of turquoise Turkish coasts for yachts.

Bodrum Cuisine; What to eat in Bodrum

You can taste various popular cuisines here. You’ll be offered the best of Italian,Thai, Chinese, Mexican, European, Turkish cuisines and sea-food from simple meals to gourmet feasts. Fish is always a favorite in coastal areas and priced by weight. Delicious starters (meze) are traditionaly accompanied by a glass of Rakı to whet the appetite.
Also fast food, Cafes and Patisseries are available all over the town.

An experience of the history of man from the perspective of the sea rather than from the land, a journey which carries you to the private beach of Cleopatra, the eternal fires of Mt. Olympos and the myriad archaeological remains of ancient civilizations.

Offering the best possible rest & recreation

Imagine yourself on a comfortable yacht, lying on the deck in the depth of the sea, sailing along the magnificent coasts. Swimming in warm crystal clear waters, diving, surfing, skiing, fishing or resting on the sandy beaches of touristic towns and historical ports are just a few of the highly recommended attractions on Blue Voyage.

On a week or two weeks cruise, travellers sail along the magical turquoise coasts into quite bays and harbors; both body and mind revel in this healthy and joyful environment.

Bodrum Yacht Charters

Yacht chartering is an excellent choice for a truly customized and private vacation alternative. There are many travel agencies which provide fully equipped yachts satisfactory for your standards for Blue Voyage. This is the best way of discovering your hidden inspiration.

Blue Voyage was started in Gökova Bay on Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı’s regular outings with fishermen.
He sailed various caves and bays in the Gulf of Gökova and fell in love with the deep blue. He become well known around the region and many people were excited of sailing around, inspired by him.

Today, the popular Blue Voyage extends from Çesme to Antalya. It starts off Bodrum and reaches Antalya sailing through Datça, Marmaris, Fethiye, Kalkan, Kaş, Kemer and the antique regions of Karia, Lycia and Pamphylia.

Small Villages and Beaches  around Bodrum:

There are many small villages where you can find the green land covered with tangerines, olives and pine trees overlooking dazzling blue bays where the Aegean & the Mediterranean Seas meet.

All seaside villages have long sandy beaches with crystal clear waters for swimming & water sports, seaside restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels and pensions.

Gümbet – 3 km west of Bodrum
Popular lively area just over the hill from Bodrum. The beach is long and sandy & warm sea is ideal for swimming and water sports. There are many hotels, restaurants and café bars.

Bitez – 10 km from Bodrum
Relaxing & entertainment village in tangerine groves with its qualified hotels and restaurants. The beach is worldwide accredited for wind surfing.

Ortakent – 14 km from Bodrum

12 km away from Bodrum. An old settlement with its green groves. Long and sandy beach for swimming and many hotels and restaurants.

Akyarlar – 13 km from Bodrum
4 km away from Bodrum. Fishing and sponge centre village with its quality hotels and restaurants. Small harbour for best scuba diving and wind surfing.

Turgutreis – 20 km from Bodrum

Lively fishing harbour and the largest settlement in the peninsula. The long beach is ideal for sun. Big market bazaar on Saturdays. Departure point for many buses.

Kadıkalesi – 23 km from Bodrum
The oldest historical location. Around 3000b.c. Lelegs were settled in this area. Panoramic sea view with many quality touristy facilities.

Gümüşlük – 25 km from Bodrum

Offers the perfect balence between simple unadorned beaches amidst untainted nature and the opportunity to enjoy genuine unobtrusive Turkish hospitality. While staying at the clean & cosy pensions or hotels; be your pleasure swimming & snorkeling in calm waters, lying on sunbeds sipping drinks or exploring the surrounding mandarin orchards and pine woods, your satisfaction is guaranteed. And when it comes to the evening meal, the restaurants perched beside the waters of the bay are famous for their range of meze and fish dishes.
We highly reccommend Gümüşlük…
But beware, the charms of Gümüşlük are highly addictive.

Yalıkavak – 18 km from Bodrum in the northwest

Lively fishing harbour famous for its fresh sea breezes and windsurfers. Market bazaar on Thursdays. Trekking up the mountain for one of the finest views of the peninsula from the windmills.

Gündoğan – 18 km from Bodrum
Small village having opportunities for guided trekking and windsurfing.

Göltürkbükü – Located 15 km north of Bodrum
Hot day time for solar and aqua related activities and charmy nights for late entertainments. Sophisticated seafood on jetty’s in small fisherman’s village facing the sea with its back to the mountains.

Torba – 5 km from Bodrum east of Bodrum
5 km away from Bodrum to the east. Lively pine trees area with its long and sandy beach full of restaurants, bars and accommodation facilities. Ferry service to Didyma.

Yalıçiftlik – 30 km from BodrumYalıçiftlik is on the road to Kızılağaç and at the entrance of the Gulf of Gökova and possibly the best seas of Bodrum are in the small coves to be found here.

Karaincir
Situated 16 km out of Bodrum, its 500 m. beach is one of the best in the area.

Bagla
With one of the best coves and beaches on the peninsula, it is an excellent place to camp and is 14 km from Bodrum.

Aspat
Rising out of the shores of the Aegean and mentioned often in Turkish folk music, the real name of Aspat is Aspartos. Built on a barren rock, the perimeter of Aspat Castle measures 700 paces. The remains of several civilizations dating back to the Classical Age can be seen here.

Ada Bogazi (Aquarium)
It is called as Aquarium because of its crystal-clear waters. IIn the open waters, the seafloor to 30 m depth can be seen with the naked eye.

Karaada
Situated 6 km from Bodrum, it is famous for its healing mineral springs.
The water comes out of a cave and the mud from the cave is said to be good for skin conditions.

Bodrum Beaches

Karaincir
Situated 16 km out of Bodrum,
its 500 m. beach is one of the best in the area.

Bagla
With one of the best coves and beaches on the peninsula, it is an excellent place to camp and is 14 km from Bodrum.

Aspat
Rising out of the shores of the Aegean and mentioned often in Turkish folk music, the real name of Aspat is Aspartos. Built on a barren rock, the perimeter of Aspat Castle measures 700 paces. The remains of several civilizations dating back to the Classical Age can be seen here.

Ada Bogazi (Aquarium)
It is called as Aquarium because of its crystal-clear waters. IIn the open waters, the seafloor to 30 m depth can be seen with the naked eye.

Karaada
Situated 6 km from Bodrum, it is famous for its healing mineral springs.
The water comes out of a cave and the mud from the cave is said to be good for skin conditions.

Things to do in Bodrum

The sailing paradise

The Turquoise Coastline between Bodrum and Antalya is the most popular crusing area of Turkey, often green, rocky and indented by bays, coves, and inlets, with a number of ancient sites near safe mooring spots, is perfect for Blue Voyage.

This idyllic cruise means sailing with the winds, into coves and over the seas and becoming one with nature.

In this region where the countless events of mythology took place, at almost every turn, you will encounter the theaters, temples and agoras of ancient cities.

For lovers of the active life, sailing in the clear waters provides the opportunity for swimming, fishing, skiing, surfing and diving.

Visiting the Ancient Sites in Bodrum

In this region where the countless events of mythology took place, at almost every turn, you will encounter the theaters, temples and agoras of ancient cities and many important events in the birth of Christanity occured here.

Faith Tours

TWO OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD STOOD IN THE AEGEAN

The temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the mausoleum at Halicarnassus – Bodrum. 

THE SEVEN CHURCHES MENTIONED IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION, ARE ALL LOCATED IN THE AEGEAN

Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyateira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.
Antioch, once called the “queen of the east” and known as the third largest city of the roman empire, played a key role in the spread of christianity. st paul began his three missionary journeys from there and it was at antioch that the followers of jesus were first called christians. a cave known today as the grotto of st. peter or the church of st. peter is believed to be where the apostle peter preached when he lived in antioch. in 1963, the papacy designated the site as a place of pilgrimage and also recognized it as the world’s first cathedral.

Apostles st. john, st. paul and st.peter have all lived and preached in anatolia. About three miles away in the forested mountain above ephesus is the house of virgin mary (meryemana evi), a modest stone house where the virgin mary lived her last days. It is believed that st. john brought mary to this site after christ’s crucifixion. Vatican declared the house of the virgin mary a holy site in 1967. 

Bodrum’s surroundings offer the possibility of many activities

In this region where the countless events of mythology took place, at almost every turn, you will encounter the ancient cities and many important events in the birth of Christanity occured here.

 Sports & Activities in Bodrum