The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is located inside the Bodrum Castle (Castle of St.Peter), that the castle was built by the Knights of St. John between 1402 and 1409. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the Mediterranean region. With its impressive collection of artifacts and fascinating exhibits, the museum provides a unique window into the ancient world.
What to Expect?
As you wander through the charming streets of Bodrum, the glistening waters of the Aegean Sea may beckon you to dive in and explore the mysteries of the deep. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a certified scuba diver to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the waves.
Exploring the Secrets of the Deep
The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the ancient Mediterranean, complete with shipwrecks, artifacts, and treasures. Whether you’re a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or simply curious about the underwater world, the museum is a must-see attraction in Bodrum.
The museum is one of the most rare underwater archaeology museums in the world that holds treasures that have been excavated from Turkish waters and also has received a special commendation in 1995 as the “European Museum of the Year”.
Fast Facts
- The museum is located in the Bodrum Castle, which was once the ancient city of Halicarnassus.
- It is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world, covering an area of over 14,000 square meters.
- The museum has 14 exhibition halls with more than 2,500 artifacts on display, including treasures from ancient shipwrecks, ceramics, glassware, and jewelry.
- The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Uluburun shipwreck, which is one of the oldest and most significant shipwrecks ever discovered.
- The museum also has an extensive collection of amphoras, which were used to transport wine, olive oil, and other goods in ancient times.
Quick History
The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is located in the Bodrum Castle, which was built by the Knights of St. John in the early 15th century. The castle was constructed using the remains of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, which was once home to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The museum was founded in 1962 by Turkish archaeologist Dr. Ekrem Akurgal, who recognized the importance of the artifacts recovered from shipwrecks off the coast of Bodrum. Since then, the museum has become one of the largest and most important museums of its kind in the world.
What’s Inside?
The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is located in the impressive Bodrum Castle of St. Peter, a 15th-century fortress that dominates the Bodrum skyline. Once you enter the castle, you’ll find yourself transported back in time to the days of ancient seafarers and traders.
The museum exhibits a collection of fascinating relics from the lives of ancient shipwrecked mariners, with glassware, copper-ware and gold items from the ship on display. It is also home to the world’s oldest known shipwrecks. Here’s what to expect when you visit:
The Glass Wreck Hall
The first exhibit you’ll encounter is the Glass Wreck Hall, which houses the remains of a 16th-century ship that sank off the coast of Kas.
The ship was carrying a cargo of glassware and luxury items, and its discovery shed light on the trading routes and commerce of the Ottoman Empire. The hall features the well-preserved hull of the ship, as well as thousands of fragments of glassware that have been meticulously reassembled.
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The Bronze Age Hall
The Bronze Age Hall is dedicated to the ancient seafaring cultures that once thrived in the Mediterranean, including the Minoans, Mycenaeans, and Carians. The hall contains a collection of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and tools, that showcase the technological advancements and artistic achievements of these civilizations.
The Carian Princess Hall
The Carian Princess Hall is one of the most popular exhibits in the museum, and for good reason. The hall contains the remains of a Carian princess who lived around 360 BCE and was buried with all her finery.
The tomb, which was discovered in 1989, contained a wealth of jewelry, including gold earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, as well as a bronze mirror and perfume bottles. The hall also features a replica of the sarcophagus and a video presentation about the discovery of the tomb.
The Ottoman Empire Hall
The Ottoman Empire Hall is dedicated to the rich history of the Ottoman Empire and its naval prowess. The hall contains a collection of Ottoman artifacts, including cannons, anchors, and navigational instruments, as well as models of ships and dioramas that depict scenes from naval battles.
The Amphora Hall
The Amphora Hall is a favorite among diving enthusiasts, as it features a collection of ancient amphorae that were used to transport wine, oil, and other goods. The hall showcases the different types of amphorae and their origins, as well as the methods used to recover them from the sea.
The Shipwreck Hall
The Shipwreck Hall is the final exhibit in the museum, and it features the remains of several ships that sank in the waters around Bodrum.
The hall includes the Uluburun shipwreck, which was discovered in 1982 and is considered one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. The ship was carrying a cargo of luxury items, including gold, silver, and ivory, and its discovery shed light on the trade routes and cultural exchanges of the ancient world.
Visiting Information
Location
The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is situated inside the Bodrum Castle, in central Bodrum, just by the coast.
Opening Hours
The museum is open every day. The opening hours vary depending on the season. During the summer months (April 1st to October 31st), the museum is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. During the winter months (November 1st to March 31st), the museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Ticket Price
please check prices from muze.gov.tr
Guided Tours
by Viator
Visiting Tips
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- The museum can get crowded during peak season, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, but there are certain areas where photography is prohibited, so make sure to check the signs.
- The museum offers guided tours in Turkish and English, which are included in the admission fee. It is recommended to take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the exhibits.
How to Get There?
Bodrum Castle is located in the heart of Bodrum, within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. If you are coming from the Bodrum Bus Station, you can take a minibus or a taxi to the castle. Taxis are readily available and are an affordable option for visitors.
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