In short
- Built by the Knights of St. John (Knights Hospitaller) starting in 1402.
- Constructed using stones from the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
- Features five prominent towers: English, French, German, Italian, and Snake.
In this article
Bodrum Castle is a 15th-century fortress located on a rocky peninsula between the city's two main harbors. Added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2016, the site features prominent defense towers built by an international order of knights. Today, the fortress also houses the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Who built Bodrum Castle?
The Knights of St. John, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, built the castle.
Construction began in 1402. The knights used stones from the nearby Mausoleum at Halicarnassus to build the fortress walls. The Mausoleum was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
What are the five towers of Bodrum Castle?
The castle includes the English, French, German, Italian, and Snake towers.
The Knights of St. John was a multinational order. Different language groups within the order built and defended specific towers. These structures offer excellent vantage points over the Aegean Sea and the Bodrum peninsula.
| Tower Name | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| English Tower | Historical knight crests and marina views |
| French Tower | One of the highest towers in the castle |
| German, Italian, Snake | Part of the five prominent defensive structures |
When was Bodrum Castle built?
Construction of Bodrum Castle started in the 15th century, specifically in 1402.
The site has served as a formidable fortress for centuries. The castle grounds feature medieval architecture and steep, uneven stone surfaces. You will need 2 to 3 hours to complete a full tour of the expansive complex.
What can you see in the English Tower?
The English Tower features historical knight crests and views of the marina.
This is a prominent defense tower within the castle. You can climb to the top for panoramic photos of Bodrum and the Aegean Sea. Visitors typically spend about 15 minutes exploring this specific tower.
Does Bodrum Castle have a dungeon?
Yes, the castle includes a dark, historical prison area known as The Dungeon.
This section demonstrates the harsh imprisonment conditions of the medieval era. The space is dark and enclosed. It takes about 10 minutes to walk through, but it is not recommended for claustrophobic visitors.
What pre-knight history is in the castle?
The Carian Princess Hall showcases the tomb and artifacts of Princess Ada of Caria.
While the Knights of St. John built the castle, the site holds older history. This hall provides a direct link to the ancient Halicarnassus region before the knights arrived. You will find a golden crown among the artifacts.
Questions travellers ask
Can you see Kos Island from Bodrum Castle?
Yes, you can see Kos Island from the castle grounds. A camera or smartphone is useful for capturing panoramic views of the island and the Bodrum Marina.
Is Bodrum Castle wheelchair accessible?
No, the site is largely unsuitable for wheelchairs. It has steep, uneven stone surfaces and many stairs.
Who built Bodrum Castle?
The Knights of St. John (Knights Hospitaller) built the fortress, starting construction in 1402 using stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
