La fortaleza que fue prisión de caballeros, almacén de momias y el gran fracaso de un sultán
Bodrum Castle, home to the famous Museum of Underwater Archaeology, is generally open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer (April to October) and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in winter (November to March). It is closed on Mondays. You can reach it on foot from central Bodrum, as it is strategically located by the harbor. I suggest checking the latest opening hours on the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The admission fee for Bodrum Castle, which includes access to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, is usually around 650 TRY (Turkish lira) per person (approximately €20–25). It is advisable to check current prices at the entrance or on the official website, as they may vary. Young children and students may receive discounts, so be sure to ask.
To fully enjoy Bodrum Castle and explore all the exhibits of the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, I would recommend setting aside between 2 and 3 hours. There is a lot to see, from the impressive towers and walls to the fascinating underwater finds, such as the Uluburun Shipwreck. If you are a history enthusiast, you could easily spend even more time there.
Bodrum Castle is a landmark of immense historical importance, built by the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of St. John in the early 15th century. It was a crucial fortress during the Crusades and later became a prison. Today, its greatest significance is that it houses the renowned Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of the most important museums of its kind in the world, displaying treasures recovered from ancient shipwrecks.
The best time to visit Bodrum Castle is during spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October), when the weather is milder and the crowds are smaller. If you visit in summer, I suggest going early in the morning right when it opens or late in the afternoon before closing to enjoy more pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. In addition, the sunset light over the castle is spectacular.
Unfortunately, due to its historic nature and uneven terrain, Bodrum Castle presents quite a few challenges for people with reduced mobility. Many areas include stairs, uneven ground, and steep paths. While some ground-floor areas may be accessible, much of the museum and the panoramic viewpoints are not. I recommend contacting the museum directly (+90 252 316 2516) for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
After visiting the castle, the Bodrum area has much more to offer. You can stroll along the harbor, visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), even though only ruins remain, or explore the Ancient Theatre of Bodrum. You also have the lively Bodrum Bazaar for shopping and the marina for a pleasant walk and dinner with a view.
Of course—here are some useful tips: wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are many stairs and different levels. Do not forget your camera; the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the city are stunning. Consider bringing a bottle of water, especially in the warmer months. And of course, an audio guide (perhaps ours at iAudioguia.com!) can greatly enrich your experience by providing fascinating details about the history and treasures you will see.
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