CASTLE SAINT-PIERRE (BODRUM KALESI)

Ancient fortress of the Aegean Sea, a major beauty in Asia Minor, St. Peter's Castle is the main attraction of the city. This imposing fortress built of white stone overlooks the Aegean Sea and is located on the site of the ancient acropolis. The castle was built between 1404 and 1522 by the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem to protect the city from pirate attacks in the eastern Mediterranean. Its towers are guarded by representatives of different nationalities and its thick crenellated walls were once surrounded by a moat, filled with sea water and rainwater to prevent invaders from entering. Ten years after its completion, Suleiman the Magnificent expelled the Knights, and this huge fortress surrounded by the sea on three of its sides was turned into a jail. Over time, the castle has undergone many renovations and extensions, it will serve as a military garrison and Turkish baths. Particularly well preserved, it remains a remarkable example of Frankish military architecture of the late Middle Ages. Since 1962, St. Peter's Castle has been the official home of the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. It is one of the largest museums dedicated to underwater archaeology in the world. You will discover a unique collection of objects recovered by divers from wrecked ships such as gold jewelry, coins, ancient objects made of glass, bronze, clay and iron, sculptures and models of ancient ships. The exhibits are organized chronologically, from the Bronze Age to the Roman era. The most impressive room is the one devoted to the ancient stone sarcophagi found in the region, which date back to the Roman period. Visitors can admire detailed carvings and relief inscriptions that tell the story of the characters depicted.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, the Château Saint-Pierre is occasionally used as a venue for cultural events. Its interior courtyard is popular for weddings. Do not miss the beautiful Andalusian garden and the chapel. However, you will have to climb a few steps to reach the top of its towers. Your efforts will be rewarded: from the castle walls, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Bodrum Bay and the Aegean Sea.