CASTLE SAINT-PIERRE (BODRUM KALESI)

An ancient Aegean fortress and a major beauty in Asia Minor, St. Peter's Castle is the city's main attraction. This imposing white-stone fortress overlooks the Aegean Sea and stands 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 various nationalities, and its thick crenellated walls were once surrounded by a moat, filled with sea water and rainwater to prevent invaders from penetrating inside. Ten years after its completion, Suleiman the Magnificent expelled the Knights, and this immense fortress, surrounded by the sea on three sides, was transformed into a prison. Over the years, the castle has undergone numerous renovations and extensions, serving as a military garrison and Turkish baths. Particularly well preserved, it remains a remarkable example of late medieval Frankish military architecture. Since 1962, Château Saint-Pierre has been the official home of the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This is one of the world's largest museums devoted to underwater archaeology. Here you'll discover a unique collection of objects recovered by divers from wrecked ships, including 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 Roman times. The most impressive room is dedicated to the ancient stone sarcophagi discovered in the region, which date back to Roman times. Visitors can admire detailed carvings and relief inscriptions telling the story of the figures depicted.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, Château Saint-Pierre is occasionally used as a venue for cultural events. Its inner courtyard is a popular venue for weddings. Don't miss the lovely Andalusian garden and the chapel. However, you'll need to climb a few steps to reach the top of its towers: from the castle ramparts, visitors enjoy spectacular views over Bodrum Bay and the Aegean Sea.