Bodrum Castle
Aegean Region
Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, is a monumental fortification constructed beginning in 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller in the port city of Bodrum, Turkey. The castle is notable for its four distinct towers named after the nations responsible for their construction: English, French, German, and Italian. Built using local volcanic stone and materials from the nearby Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the castle's architecture reflects advanced medieval defensive design, including twisted passages and multiple gates to thwart attackers. Originally a Christian stronghold, it was captured by the Ottoman Empire in 1523, after which its chapel was converted into a mosque with an added minaret. Today, the castle hosts the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which showcases an extensive collection of underwater artifacts spanning from the 16th century BC to the 16th century AD, including notable shipwreck exhibits like the Uluburun Shipwreck. The castle's historical significance, unique architecture, and cultural exhibitions make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in medieval history and maritime archaeology.
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Consiglio: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Purchase tickets in advance or use the Museum Pass (MüzeKart) valid for Turkish citizens to save time and money. Audio guides are available for a richer experience. The museum and castle are open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with ticket sales closing at 6:30 PM.
Fatti interessanti
- •The castle's four towers are named after the nationalities of the Knights who built them: English, French, German, and Italian.
- •Construction materials include stones and marble reliefs taken from the nearby Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- •The castle contains 249 painted coats of arms and carved reliefs representing grand masters, commanders, countries, and religious figures.
- •The Uluburun Shipwreck exhibit at the museum is one of the most significant underwater archaeological finds, dating back to the 14th century BC.
- •Fourteen cisterns were excavated under the castle to collect rainwater, demonstrating advanced medieval engineering.
Storia
Bodrum Castle was built starting in 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller as a mainland stronghold opposite their base on Rhodes.
It was constructed on a site with a long history, including a Doric fortification and a Seljuk castle.
The castle was completed in stages through the 15th century, with key features like the chapel finished by 1407.
It served as a critical refuge for Christians in Asia Minor and was fortified against Ottoman attacks during the 15th century.
In 1523, the Ottomans captured the castle, converting parts of it for Islamic use.
The castle remained under Ottoman control for nearly 400 years before being repurposed as a museum in the 1960s.
In 2016, it was recognized on Turkey's UNESCO Tentative list of World Heritage Sites.
Guida del luogo
English Tower (Lion Tower)1413
A three-storied tower completed in 1413, notable for its antique lion relief on the western façade and the coat of arms of King Henry IV of England. It was accessible only via a drawbridge and served as a strong defensive bastion.
Chapel (Castle Mosque)1407
Originally built around 1407 as a chapel, it was reconstructed in Gothic style by Spanish Knights in 1519-1520. After Ottoman conquest, it was converted into a mosque with an added minaret, blending Christian and Islamic architectural elements.
Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology1964 (museum establishment)
Located within the castle, this museum is unique in Turkey and among few worldwide dedicated to underwater archaeology. It exhibits artifacts from shipwrecks dating from the 16th century BC to the 16th century AD, including the world-famous Uluburun Shipwreck, and features halls dedicated to various shipwrecks and amphora collections.
Castle Walls and Defensive Features1404-1437 (construction period)
The castle's walls were designed with the latest defensive techniques of the 15th century, including thickened walls facing the mainland to resist cannon fire and intricate passageways to prevent attackers from finding cover. Seven gates allowed controlled access to the fortress interior.
Contatto
Telefono: (0252) 316 25 16