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BoDRuMLu.NeTYou can find everything me and my country . Did you ever been in TURKEY ?? 7/31/2005 About IstanbulİSTANBUL
Population: 7.309.190 (1990) Traffic Code: 34
Istanbul, once known as the capital of capital cities, has many unique features. It is the only city in the world to straddle two continents, and the only one to have been a capital during two consecutive empires - Christian and Islamic. Once capital of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul still remains the commercial, historical and cultural pulse of Turkey, and its beauty lies in its ability to embrace its contradictions. Ancient and modern, religious and secular, Asia and Europe, mystical and earthly all co-exist here. Its variety is one of Istanbul’s greatest attractions: The ancient mosques, palaces, museums and bazaars reflect its diverse history. The thriving shopping area of Taksim buzzes with life and entertainment. And the serene beauty of the Bosphorus, Princes Islands and parks bring a touch of peace to the otherwise chaotic metropolis. Districts Adalar, Avcılar, Bağcılar, Bahçelievler, Bakırköy, Beşiktaş, Bayrampaşa, Beykoz, Beyoğlu, Eminönü, Eyüb, Fatih, Gaziosmanpaşa, Kadıköy, Kâğıthane, Kartal, Küçükçekmece, Pendik, Sarıyer, Şişli, Ümraniye, Üsküdar, Zeytinburnu, Büyükçekmece, Çatalca, Silivri, Şile, Esenler, Güngören, Maltepe, Sultanbeyli, Tuzla
The Bosphorus
From the Tunel area to Taksim square is one of the city’s focal points for shopping, entertainment and urban promenading: Istiklal Cadesi is a fine example of the contrasts and compositions of Istanbul; fashion shops, bookshops, cinemas, markets, restaurants and even hand-carts selling trinkets and simit (sesame bread snack) ensure that the street is packed throughout the day until late into the night. The old tramcars re-entered into service, which shuttle up and down this fascinating street, and otherwise the street is entirely pedestrianised. There are old embassy buildings, Galatasaray High School, the colourful ambience of Balik Pazari (Fish Bazaar) and restaurants in Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage). Also on this street is the oldest church in the area, St Mary’s Draperis dating back to 1789, and the Franciscan Church of St Antoine, demolished and then rebuilt in 1913. The street ends at Taksim Square, a huge open plaza, the hub of modern Istanbul and always crowded, crowned with an imposing monument celebrating Attaturk and the War of Independence. The main terminal of the new subway is under the square, adjacent is a noisy bus terminal, and at the north end is the Ataturk Cultural Centre, one of the venues of the Istanbul Theatre Festival. Several five-star hotels are dotted around this area, like the Hyatt, Intercontinental and Hilton (the oldest of its kind in the city). North of the square is the Istanbul Military Museum. Taksim and Beyoglu have for centuries been the centre of nightlife, and now there are many lively bars and clubs off Istiklal Cadesi, including some of the only gay venues in the city. Beyoglu is also the centre of the more bohemian arts scene. Sultanahmet: Many places of tourist interest are concentrated in Sultanahmet, heart of the Imperial Centre of the Ottoman Empire. The most important places in this area, all of which are described in detail in the “Places of Interest” section, are Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofia, Sultan Ahmet Camii (the Blue Mosque), the Hippodrome, Kapali Carsi (Covered Market), Yerebatan Sarnici and the Museum of Islamic Art. In addition to this wonderful selection of historical and architectural sites, Sultanahmet also has a large concentration of carpet and souvenir shops, hotels and guesthouses, cafes, bars and restaurants, and travel agents.
The name Ortakoy reflects the university students and teachers who would gather to drink tea and discuss life, when it was just a small fishing village. These days, however, that scene has developed into a suburb with an increasing amount of expensive restaurants, bars, shops and a huge market. The fishing, however, lives on and the area is popular with local anglers, and there is now a huge waterfront tea-house which is crammed at weekends and holidays. Sarıyer: The first sight of Sarıyer is where the Bosphorus connects with the Black Sea, after the bend in the river after Tarabya. Around this area, old summer houses, embassies and fish restaurants line the river, and a narrow road which separates it from Buyukdere, continues along to the beaches of Kilyos. Sarıyer and Rumeli Kavağı are the final wharfs along the European side visited by the Bosphorus boat trips. Both these districts, famous for their fish restaurants along with Anadolu Kavagi, get very crowded at weekends and holidays with Istanbul residents escaping the city. After these points, the Bosphorus is lined with tree-covered cliffs and little habitation. The Sadberk Hanim Museum, just before Sariyer, is an interesting place to visit; a collection of archaeological and ethnographic items, housed in two wooden houses. A few kilometres away is the huge Belgrade Forest, once a haunting ground of the Ottomans, and now a popular weekend retreat into the largest forest area in the city.
The Iskele, or Mihrimah Camii is opposite the main ferry pier, on a high platform with a huge covered porch in front, often occupied by older local men watching life around them. Opposite this is Yeni Valide Camii, built in 1710, and the Valide Sultan’s green tomb rather like a giant birdcage. The Cinili Mosque takes its name from the beautiful tiles which decorate the interior, and was built in 1640. Apart from places of religious interest, Uskudar is also well known as a shopping area, with old market streets selling traditional local produce, and a good fleamarket with second hand furniture. There are plenty of good restaurants and cafes with great views of the Bosphorus and the rest of the city, along the quayside. In the direction of Haydarpasa is the lhe Karaca Ahmet Cemetery, the largest Muslim graveyard in Istanbul. The front of the Camlica hills lie at the ridge of area and also offer great panoramic views of the islands and river. Kadıköy: Further south along the Bosphorus towards the Sea of Marmara, Kadıköy has developed into a lively area with up-market shopping, eating and entertainment making it popular especially with wealthy locals. Once prominent in the history of Christianity, the 5th century hosted important consul meetings here, but there are few reminders of that age. It is one of the improved districts of Istanbul over the last century, and fashionable area to promenade along the waterfront in the evenings, especially around the marinas and yacht clubs. Bagdat Caddesi is one of the most trendy – and label-conscious – fashion shopping streets, and for more down-to-earth goods, the Gen Azim Gunduz Caddesi is the best place for clothes, and the bit pazari on Ozelellik Sokak is good for browsing through junk. In the district of Moda, is the Benadam art gallery, as well as many foreign cuisine restaurants and cafes. Haydarpaşa: To the north of Kadikoy is Haydarpasa, and the train station built in 1908 with Prussain-style architecture which was the first stop along the Baghdad railway. Now it is the main station going to eastbound destinations both within Turkey, and internationally. There are tombs and monuments dedicated to the English and French soldiers who lost their lives during the Crimean War (1854-56), near the military hospital. The north-west wing of the 19th Century Selimiye Barracks once housed the hospital, used by Florence Nightingale to care for soldiers, and remains to honour her memory. Polonezköy: Polonezköy, although still within the city, is 25 km. away from the centre and not easy to reach by public transport. Translated as “village of the Poles”, the village has a fascinating history: It was established in 1848 by Prince Czartorisky, leader of the Polish nationals who was granted exile in the Ottoman Empire to escape oppression in the Balkans. During his exile, he succeeded in establishing a community of Balkans, which still survives, on the plot of land sold to him by a local monastery. Since the 1970s the village has become a popular place with local Istanbulites, who buy their pig meat there (pig being forbidden under Islamic law and therefore difficult to get elsewhere). All the Poles have since left the village, and the place is inhabited now by wealthy city people, living in the few remaining Central European style wooden houses with pretty balconies. What attracts most visitors to Polonezkoy is its vast green expanse, which was designated Istanbul’s first national park, and the walks though forests with streams and wooden bridges. Because of its popularity, it gets crowded at weekends and the hotels are usually full. Kilyos: Kilyos is the nearest beach resort to the city, on the Black Sea coast on the European side of the Bosphorus. Once a Greek fishing village, it has quickly been developed as a holiday-home development, and gets very crowded in summer. Because of its ease to get there, 25km and plenty of public transport, it is good for a day trip, and is a popular weekend getaway with plenty of hotels, and a couple of campsites. Şile: A pleasant, small holiday town, Şile lies 50km from Üsküdar on the Black Sea coast and some people even live here and commute into Istanbul. The white sandy beaches are easily accessible from the main highway, lying on the west, as well as a series of small beaches at the east end. The town itself if perched on a clifftop over looking the bay tiny island. There is an interesting French-built black-and-white striped lighthouse, and 14th century Genoese castle on the nearby island. Apart from its popular beaches, the town is also famous for its craft; Sile bezi, a white muslin fabric a little like cheesecloth, which the local women embroider and sell their products on the street, as well as all over Turkey. The town has plenty of accommodation available, hotels, guest houses and pansiyons, although can get very crowded at weekends and holidays as it is very popular with people from Istanbul for a getaway, especially in the summer. There are small restaurants and bars in the town. Prince’s Islands: Also known as Istanbul Islands, there are eight within one hour from the city, in the Marmara Sea. Boats ply the islands from Sirkeci, Kabatas and Bostanci, with more services during the summer. These islands, on which monasteries were established during the Byzantine period, was a popular summer retreat for palace officials. It is still a popular escape from the city, with wealthier owning summer houses. Buyukada The largest and most popular is Buyukada (the Great Island). Large wooden mansions still remain from the 19th century when wealthy Greek and Armernian bankers built them as holiday villas. The island has always been a place predominantly inhabited by minorities, hence Islam has never had a strong presence here. Buyukada has long had a history of people coming here in exile or retreat; its most famous guest being Leon Trotsky, who stayed for four years writing ‘The History of the Russian Revolution’. The monastery of St George also played host to the granddaughter of Empress Irene, and the royal princess Zoe, in 1012. The island consists of two hills, both surmounted by monasteries, with a valley between. Motor vehicles are banned, so getting around the island can be done by graceful horse and carriage, leaving from the main square off Isa Celebi Sokak. Bicycles can also be hired. The southern hill, Yule Tepe, is the quieter of the two and also home of St George’s Monastery. It consists of a series of chapels on three levels, the site of which is a building dating back to the 12th century. In Byzantine times it was used as an asylum, with iron rings on the church floors used to restrain patients. On the northern hill is the monastery Isa Tepe, a 19th century house. The entire island is lively and colourful, with many restaurants, hotels, tea houses and shops. There are huge well-kept houses, trim gardens, and pine groves, as well as plenty of beach and picnic areas.
Heybeliada ‘Island of the Saddlebag’, because of its shape, is loved for its natural beauty and beaches. It also has a highly prestigious and fashionable watersports club in the northwest of the island. One of its best-known landmarks is the Greek Orthodox School of Theology, with an important collection of Byzantine manuscripts. The school sits loftily on the northern hill, but permission is needed to enter, from the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Fener. The Deniz Harp Okulu, the Naval High School, is on the east side of the waterfront near the jetty, which was originally the Naval War Academy set up in 1852, then a high school since 1985. Walking and cycling are popular here, plus isolated beaches as well as the public Yoruk Beach, set in a magnificent bay. There are plenty of good local restaurants and tea houses, especially along Ayyıldız Caddesi, and the atmosphere is one of a close community.
Bayramoğlu - Darıca Bird Paradise and Botanic Park is a unique resort place 38 km. away from Istanbul. This gargantuan park with its trekking roads, restaurants is full of bird species and plants, coming from various parts of the world. Sweet Eskihisar fisherman borough, to whose marina can be anchored by yachtsmen after daily voyages in Marmara Sea is at south east of Istanbul. Turkey's 19th century famous painter, Osman Hamdi Bey's house in borough is turned into a museum. Hannibal's tomb between Eskihisar and Gebze is one of the sites around a Byzantium castle. There are lots of Istanbul residents' summer houses in popular holiday place 65 km. away from Istanbul, Silivri. This is a huge holiday place with magnificent restaurants, sports and health centers. Conference center is also attracting businessmen, who are escaping rapid tempo of urban life for "cultural tourism" and business - holiday mixed activities. Scheduled sea bus service is connecting Istanbul to Silivri. Islands within Marmara Sea, which is adorned with nine islands, was the banishing place of the Byzantium princes. Today they are now wealthy Istanbul residents' escaping places for cool winds during summer months and 19th century smart houses. Biggest one of the islands is Büyükada. You can have a marvelous phaeton travel between pine trees or have a swim within one of the numerous bays around islands! Other popular islands are Kınalı, Sedef, Burgaz and Heybeliada. Regular ferry voyages are connecting islands to both Europe and Asia coasts. There is a rapid sea bus service from Kabataş during summers. HOW TO GET By Road : Not surprisingly, Istanbul is well connected to every part of Turkey. Buses are frequent and plentiful, and the main coach station (otogar) is at Esenler, on the European side. There are countless independent bus companies, all of whom have a ticket office at the station and the larger ones have offices dotted around town, especially in areas like Taksim, Sultanahmed and Besiktas. Prices vary slightly regarding quality of the vehicle. There are also departures from Harem, on the Asian side. For journeys further afield, there buses to Greece, Macedonia, Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iran, Russia, Georgia, Romania, Bulgaria and Jordan. Bus Station Tel: (+90-212) 658 05 05, 658 10 10, 333 37 63, 310 63 63. Within the city, public transport is a good way of getting around. There are minibuses, buses, taxis, trams (from Aksaray) a new subway (between Taskim and Levent) and a tiny electric tramcar (Beyoğlu to Taksim). By Rail : Not as popular a mode of transport as buses, with a much smaller network, there are rail connections from Istanbul to Ankara, Izmir and Eastern Anatolian cities. Most of the services are slower than buses, although between the three main cities there are the mavi tren, mototren or ekspresi, which are fast and comfortable. Reservations are essential for these journeys, and there are several classes of seats and sleepers. International services from Sirkeci (on the European side) and Haydarpasa (Asian side) stations include Vienna, Munich, Budapest, Salonica, (via Eskisehir, Konya, and Gaziantep), Aleppo, (via Tatvan and Van), Tehran, Moscow and Bucharest. Trains heading west leave from Sirkeci, and east from Haydarpasa station. Sirkeci İnformation Tel: (+90-212) 527 0050/51. Reservations Tel: (+90-212) 520 6575 Haydarpasa İnformation Tel: (+90-216) 336 0475/2063. Reservations Tel: (+90-216) 336 4470, 337 8724. By Boat : Maritime Lines run both the urban and national transport. Marinas also have connections with European ports. Urban Maritime Transportation runs ships which operate between the following destinations within Istanbul: Kadikoy – Haydarpasa – Karakoy; Eminonu – Uskudar; Eminonu – Kadikoy; Bridge – Yenikoy; Beykoz – Kavaklar; Sirkeci - Bostanci, Bridge – Prince’s Islands; Bridge – Yalova; Kabatas – Cinarcik; Bostanci - Cinarcik. Boats operate from Istanbul to the following Black Sea towns: Zonguldak, Sinop, Samsun, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, as well as Izmir. Marmara Lines run to Marmara Island, Bandirma and Mudanya. Useful contacts: Port Tel : (+90-212) 245 53 66/249 71 78/249 18 96. By Air : Ataturk International Airport is 20 km from city centre. The new airport is the biggest in the country, with the most international flights. There are direct flights to every European capital, and many to Asia, USA and the Middle East. The domestic terminal has flights to every domestic airport in the country, with several a day to major cities like Ankara and Izmir. Turkish Airlines (THY) is the national carrier.
GEOGRAPHY
HISTORY
During the 4th century, Istanbul was selected by the Roman Empire to be the new capital, instead of Rome, by Constantine. It was a strategic choice: Built on seven surrounding hills – echoing that of Rome – the city would have control of the Bosphorus and easy access to the harbour of the Golden Horn. The city was re-organized within six years, its ramparts widened and the construction of many temples, official buildings, palaces, hamams and hippodrome. With great ceremony, in the year 330 the city was officially announced as the capital of the Roman Empire, and known as Constantinople in the late eras. It remained the capital of the eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine) for a long period, due to the fall of the west Roman Empire in the 5th century. By the sixth century, the population exceeded half a million, and was considered a golden age under Emperor Justinyen’s reign. The Byzantium Empire and Istanbul's latter history is full of palace and church intrigues, was overrun by the Arabs in the 7th and 8th centuries, the Bulgars in the 9th and 10th, but could not keep out the Crusaders who conquered in 1204. They destroyed and raided it for many more years - including churches, monasteries and monuments, which led to a decline in the population. The city passed reign to Byzantium again in 1261, did not regain its former richness, and was conquered by Turks in 1453 after a 53-day siege and the hands of control changed yet again. It then became the capital city of Ottoman Empire, which saw a population increase with immigrants from other parts of the country, with religious freedom and social rights granted to Greeks, Armenians and Jews. Mehmet the Conqueror began to rebuild it, with a new palace and mosque (Fatih Camii) and tried to inject new life into the economy. The reign of Suleyman the Magnificent (1520-66) was considered the greatest of all the Ottoman leaders, and the military conquests paid for the most impressive Ottoman architecture, the work of Mimar Sinan. The city was also the centre of the Islamic work, and domes and minarets from hundreds of mosques dotted the skyline. But a century after the death of Suleyman, the Empire started to decline again. By the end of the 18th century the empire was in decline with more territory being lost to the West, and sultans becoming more interested in Western institutional models. There was a short-lived Ottoman parliament and constitution in 1876, and by the end of the World War I during which allied troops occupied the city, the once-great empire was in shambles. This changed radically with the emergence of a prominent commander of the Turkish army, who entered the struggle for the Turkish nation. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was considered a hero after the 4-year long War of Independence, after which he established the Republic if Turkey in 1923. Moving the capital to Ankara, then a small provincial town in Anatolia, Istanbul was simply the commercial and cultural centre, which it still remains today. Where to Eat
The typical dish of Istanbul would consist of lamb, mutton and veal, to which a variety of vegetables are added. Pilaf, all kinds of pastry, bulgur, haricot beans, rich olive oil and vegetables are used as side dishes. Meat balls, shish kebab and doner kebab are the classic, most classic dishes found in any kebab restaurant, together with peppers, yoghurt, eggplant. Because of its coastal location, fish is also popular although is usually cooked simply, such as grilled or fried with olive oil and lemon juice. Like the rest of the country, the usual way of starting a big meal is with mezzes, a selection of hot and cold dishes such as meat, fish, salads, vegetables and cheese, shared amongst the table and eaten with fresh bread. To finish your meal, pastry tarts, baklava, kadayif and a whole host of sweets are available not only in restaurants, but in pastry shops which have often been going for generations. Because it is the commercial and cultural centre of Turkey, there are restaurants of many nationalities in Istanbul, like Korean, Russian, Italian and Chinese. American-style fast-food outlets are becoming more popular, but for a quick snack it is more appropriate to fill up at the plethora of tiny takeaways with kebabs and snacks. It is easy to sample good quality regional cuisine in typical small restaurants, usually at low cost, especially in the commercial and business areas. To wash down your meal, Turkey’s most famous two drinks are milky-coloured – although could not be more different: Ayran is a cooling, salty yoghurt drink which is refreshing in summer and can be found everywhere, from street stalls to restaurants. Raki, with the nick-name Lion’s Milk is a strong spirit with the taste of Aniseed, which turns milky-white when mixed with water. It is usually drunk to accompany food, especially at the beginning with mezzes. The main area of beer and wine production is Anatolia. Turkish coffee is legendary, usually served very sweet and strong and drunk from tiny cups. It normally follows a meal, or is popular in cafes and offered when visiting people or even sitting in carpet shops! The expression, “a cup of coffee has a memory of 40 years”, has been repeated by Turks since the 16th century. For a meal out which is lively and entertaining, the taverns and fish restaurants around Kumkapi, west of Sultanahmet, are great for outdoor dining and street atmosphere, and very popular in the summer. People have been meeting for years at Cicek Pasaji in Beyoglu for snacks and seafood specialities, and nearby is the narrow Nevizade street, the best place in Istanbul for eating Turkish specialties and drinking raki. On the Bosphorus, Ortakoy is another good nightlife spot, with a good range of nightclubs, jazz clubs, fine seafood restaurants and bars. At Eminönü don't miss an opportunity to see fishermen dressed in traditional Ottoman clothes and their Ottoman-style boats cooking delicious fried fish, whilst bobbing on the water around Eminonu. WHAT TO BUY
Sultanahmet has become another shopping mecca in the old city mainly because it has the highest concentration of tourist attractions. The Istanbul Sanatlari Carsisi (Bazaar of Istanbul Arts) in the 18th century Mehmet Efendi Medresesi, and the nearby 16th-century Caferaga Medrese, built by Sinan, offer you the chance to see craftsmen at work and to purchase their wares. In the Arasta (old bazaar) of the Sultanahmet Mosque, a thriving shopping arcade selling carpets, jewellery and local arts makes both shopping and sightseeing very convenient. There are many carpet shops in this area, and the chances are that sooner or later you will be approached by one of many dealers to visit his shop. The sophisticated shops of in the Taksim and Nisantasi districts contrast with the chaos of the bazaars. Istiklal Caddesi and Cumhuriyet Caddesi have shops selling elegant fashionwear made from Turkey's high quality textiles. Exquisite jewellery, as well as finely designed handbags and shoes can also be found. Nisantasi is the main area for clothes by top Turkish designers. For an even more modern, European shopping experience, the huge new malls of the Atakoy Galleria Mall in Atakoy, the Akmerkez Mall in Etiler and the Carousel Mall in Bakirkoy have have European outlets, Turkish fashion shops, as well as restaurants and a cinema. have branches of Istanbul's most elegant shops. In Bakirkoy, the Carousel Mall is worth a visit, as is the Atlas Passage in Beyoglu. Bahariye Avenue, Bagdat Avenue,and Capitol Mall on the Asian side, offer the same shopping opportunities. In Istanbul's busy flea markets there is an astonishing assortment of goods, both old and new. There is a daily opportunity to poke about the Sahaflar Carsisi and Cinaralti in the Beyazit areas. On Sundays, in a flea market between the Sahaflar and the Covered Bazaar, vendors uncover their wares on carts and blankets. The Horhor Carsisi is a collection of shops selling furniture of varying age and quality. Flea markets are open daily in the Topkapi district, on Cukurcuma Sokak in Cihangir, on Buyuk Hamam Sokak in Uskudar, in the Kadikoy Carsi Duragi area, and between Eminonu and Tahtakale. After a Sunday drive up the Bosphorus, stop between Buyukdere and Sariyer to wander through another lively market. ARTS, CULTURE and ENTERTAINMENT DON'T LEAVE WITHOUT
- Visiting Hagia Sophia and Museum, - Visiting Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Hisarı, - Having a ship voyage at Bosporus and Islands, - Watching Istanbul panorama from Galata Tower and Pierre Loti, - Following art and cultural activities, - Being curious and seeing entertainment life, - Visiting Ortaköy bazaar, - Having a tour via phaeton in Büyükada, - Eating fish in Bosporus, Kumkapı and çiçek bazaar, yogurt in Kanlıca, and profiterole in Beyoğlu, - Buying carpet, jewelry, leather clothes in Kapalıçarşı, and Turkish delight, baklava, pastırma and deserts in Mısır Bazaar, - Shopping in Beyoğlu and all mega shopping centers. Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in İstanbul Sites CONTACT INFORMATION Governorship : (+90-212) 514 17 50 7/23/2005 About Bodrum / My TOWNBODRUM
Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbors, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbors.
Bodrum experienced the dominance of various civilizations throughout the history such as Persians,Mecedonians,Roman Empire and Byzantines. Byzantines lost their power in Anatolian region after they were defeated by the Seljuk Ruler Alpaslan at Malazgirt in 1071. Rhodian knights had constructed the present Bodrum castle and established theirrule over the region. Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent on his military expedition to Rhodes conquered Bodrum together with Rhodes and added them to the territory of Ottoman Empire. Summers are hot and dry while winters are mild and rainy.
How to Go By Road
Where to Visit MUSEUMS It is one of the most important and biggest museums of its kind in the world. The relics recovered from excavation which started in the 1960's are on display in this museum located in the Bodrum Castle.The Eastern Mediterranean amphora collection as well as findings resulting from research on sunken ships in the immediate vicinity are on display. The significant of this sunken ships are those at Yassıada, Şeytan Brook and Serçe Harbour. The remains of the oldest known sunken ship in the world are also here and well-worth seeing. Bodrum Castle Tel: (+90-252) 316 10 95 Maussolleion Open Air Museum It gets its name from the fact that the tomb of Mausolos, the King of Caria, is located here. His wife, also his sister, had the most famous architects of the day design the structure. It was almost completely destroyed in the Great Anatolian earthquake. There is a small museum here at the site of this tomb which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The word "maussolleion" is taken from King Mausolos' name. Many of the stones of this Mausoleum were used in the construction of Bodrum Castle. The beautiful reliefs on the grave, however, were taken to the British Museum during the excavations in the 19th century. Ancient Theater The theater is located on the Bodrum - Turgutreis road. It has an audience capacity of 13,000 seats. The stage area has been uncovered and the seats have been restored. Rock Tombs Above the theater on the slope are rock tombs that belong to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Myndos Door Located west of the city, it is one of the entrances to the city of Halicarnassos. The Myndos Door consisted of two monumental towers and an inner courtyard at the gate that lead to the city. Çıfıt Castle (Aspat) Built on a rocky outcrop in the southwestern portion of the peninsula close to Bağla cove, it contains artefacts from several civilizations.
Located on the Yatağan - Milas highway, the ruins in the village of Eskihisar contains a very rich collection of artefacts from the Caria, Roman and Byzantine eras. Lagina The temple of Hecate can be reached by following the dirt road (9 km) leading to Turgut. Excavations have shown that this city, once an important center of the Caria Civilization, has been inhabited since the Early Bronze Age. Cedrai Island One of the most eminent ruins of the region with its rich history and natural beauty, Sedir Island can be reached by boat either from Gökova - Akyaka or Çamlıköy. The ruins which one would want to see first are the Temple of Apollo, the theater,and the ancient harbor. The famous Cleopatra beach is here as well. Cisterns Cisterns built by the Ottomans and known as "Gümbet" can be seen all over the peninsula. They were built by the wealthy citizens who named the cisterns after themselves. CASTLES
MOSQUES Upon his arrival to Bodrum to construct a dockyard, Mustafa Paşa from Kızılhisar,made this mosque built. (1723). Tepecik Mosque It was constructed by Hamam Ağa, the steward of Mustafa Pasha. Adliye Mosque It was built in 1901 through the means of the monatery fund provided by the amount gathered among the public and given by Abdulhamit II. Şaldırşah Horasani Tomb, Kubbeli Tomb, Mustafa Pasha Tomb including the grave of Kaptan-ı Derya Cafer Pasha and Koyunbaba Tomb are worth to see. BEACHES Güvercinlik: A cove of unusual beauty with every conceivable tone green and blue, it is located 25 km from Bodrum. Salih Island, located right across the water, only serves to enhance the natural appeal of this beautiful cove. Torba: A peaceful little village just 5 km from Bodrum is a charming and lively place where the shining sea melds with the green pines and olive trees. There are boats going to Didim, Milet and Priene from here. Gölköy: Located 13 km north of Bodrum, this beautiful cove blends the green of olive, tangerine and pine trees with that of palms. Because it faces the north, it is always lush and the water in the cove is cooler than that in the other coves. Türkbükü: Situated beside Gölköy, at a distanceof 15 km from Bodrum, it resembles Gölköy in almost every way. It is one of the places preferred by people looking for peace and quiet. Gündoğan: Located 18 km from Bodrum, Gündoğan cove is one of the coves that has been least changed by man and which still preserves its beauty in the most natural way. Its tangerine orchards are famous. Yalıkavak: This village is 18 km from Bodrum in the northwestern part of the peninsula. It is famous for its windmills, fish, citrus orchards and sea. The most famous sponge divers have come from this village.
Kadıkalesi: The sandy beaches of this crystal clear sea are surrounded with citrus orchards. Situated 23 km from Bodrum, it gets its name from the remains of a nearby castle belonging to the Hellenistic era. Turgutreis: Situated 20 km from Bodrum, the town is famous for its tangerine orchards. It was named after the famous Turkish admiral, Turgut Reis. In terms of population, it is one of the most populous areas of the peninsula. It is known for its unforgettable sunsets. Akyarlar: This cove with its wonderful beach and crystal clear waters is 13 km from Bodrum. It is one of the best places to surf. Karaincir: Situated 16 km out of Bodrum, its 500 m. beach is one of the best in the area. Bağla: With one of the best coves and beaches on the peninsula, it is an excellent place to camp and is 14 km from Bodrum. Aspat: Rising out of the shores of the Aegean and mentioned often in Turkish folk music, the real name of Aspat is Aspartos. Built on a barren rock, the perimeter of Aspat Castle measures 700 paces. The remains of several civilizations dating back to the Classical Age can be seen here. Ortakent: Located 14 km from Bodrum, its waters are warm and it has sandy beaches. Its tangerine orchards are quite famous. It is one of the best vantage points from which to view village life in Bodrum. Bitez: One of the most beautiful coves on the peninsula, it is 10 km from Bodrum. It has sandy beaches. It is a beautiful quiet corner where blue and green reach out to touch each other in the tangerine orchards which stretch from the village to the sea. Gümbet: About 3 km west of Bodrum, its waters are very shallow. Bardakçı is at a distance of 500 m. from Bodrum. Most people go there by boat. It is known for its beach and the water, which is as clear as glass, as well as the fresh water spring there. Bardakçı: It is 500 m. from Bodrum.One can reach to Bardakçı by sea easily.Its crystal clear sea is well-known for its springs. Karaada: Situated 6 km from Bodrum, it is famous for its healing mineral springs. The water comes out of a cave and the mud from the cave is said to be good for skin conditions. Ada Boğazı (Aquarium): It is called as Aquarium because of its crystal-clear waters. IIn the open waters, the seafloor to 30 m depth can be seen with the naked eye. TRADITIONAL BODRUM HOUSES The common features of the traditional architecture used in Bodrum are windowless first floors and doors on the second storey with access by way of ladders that can be drawn up into the house. These houses, which are now protected by the government, are located mostly in the villages of Ortakent and Kocakaya above Gümüşlük. Individuals,such as artists and writers who have settled in Bodrum have done a great service to the area by restoring older houses and this has made it an even more interesting place to visit. YACHTING The marina has a capacity of 275-yachts. The marina also has 12 slips for the maintenance and repair of yachts as well as wintering. The yacht races in Bodrum are probably the only ones in the world that completely inexperienced people can participate in, even children have participated. The Bodrum Cup is the most comfortable competition for 15-30 m. luxury yachts in the world. Stretching from Bodrum to the south-east, Gökova Bay has been named after Halikarnas Balıkçısı and Azra Erhat as ‘the Blue Voyage” when they first discovered it. Boats which pull up anchor in Bodrum and head for Gökova will soon discover the ultimate harmony of green and blue and the beauties which lie under the crystal clear waters. A center for manufacturing boats for centuries, the demand of sea-faring visitors has made yacht tourism one of the principal sources of income in Bodrum. Among the first places seen on "The Blue Journey" are Karaada, Kargacık Bükü, Pabuç Burnu, Kargı Adası, Alakışla and Çökertme. Other important stops on "The Blue Journey" are the forested and crystal clear coves of KüçükÇatı, Büyük Çatı, Yedi Adalar, Longöz, Değirmen Bükü, and Karacasöğüt. Besides the natural beauty, historic sites such as Sedir Island, the ancient city of Keramos and Yedi Adalar are frequent stopping places. Allow 7-10 days for this journey, which is open to anyone who wants to join one of the groups.
What to Eat
What to Buy
Don't Leave Without
Going to the Tuesday Bazaar, Joining one of the daily tours, Stopping by Bodrum Bars, Dining on the excellent fish restaurants in Gümüşlük, Eating Bodrum style 'waterpastry', Eating the spicy 'Ot kavurması' and stuffed pumpkin flowers, Purchasing the Bodrum beads and batik cloth.
Contact Infrmation Municipality: (+90-252) 316 10 09 Provincial Directorate of Information: (+90-252) 316 10 91 Police: (+90-252) 316 80 80 Hospital: (+90-252) 313 14 20
About MUGLA / My CityMUĞLA
The province of Muğla is located at the south of the Aegean Region and is founded at the skirts of the Asar (Hisar) Mountain spreading towards the plain and is a beautiful and clean tourism paradise with its original architecture, whitewashed walls, red roof tiled roofs, authentic chimneys and narrow streets.
HOW TO GET Highway : The transportation to the province and its districts, all of which have their own historical and touristic properties is possible via highway from the neighboring and other cities. It is possible to reach to the province by bus journeys from İzmir, Ankara and Istanbul provinces. The transportation to other districts and the travel in the city is via minibuses. Telephone of the Bus Station: (+ 90 - 252) 212 61 30 Railway : Telephone of the Railway Station: (+ 90 - 252) 417 06 16 Air Transportation : The nearest airport is located at the Marmaris District. It is also possible to use the Bodrum and Dalaman Airports for arrival. Telephone of the Dalaman Airport:(+ 90 - 252) 792 52 91
WHERE TO VISIT
The findings discovered from the Yatağan - Stratonikeia Ancient city are also exhibited in the museum.
MOSQUES Kurşunlu Mosque : The Mosque was constructed by Esseyyit Sucaaddin in 1493. The different property of the mosque from other mosques in Muğla Province is that the dome of the mosque is covered with lead. Şahidi Mosque : The structure was initially a small mosque constructed in the name of Seyyid Kemalettin and was restored and expanded in 1848 by Hacı Osman Ağa. The mausoleum of Şahidi Dede and the graveyards of Seyyid Kemalettin and İbrahim Dede is located in the courtyard of the mosque. Ulu Mosque : The Ulu Mosque is known as the oldest mosque of the province. The mosque was constructed by the one of the Menteşe State Sultans, İbrahim Bey in 1334 and was restored in a following date.
INNS AND BATHS The inns and baths present in the province of Muğla could be counted as; Yağcılar Inn, Konukaltı Inn, Yarım Inn and Vakıflar Bath.
These traditional houses are especially present at the skirts of the Hisar Mountain and are structures reflecting the traditional texture with red roof tiled roofs, whitewashed walls and green trees overflowing over these walls forming a harmonic trio in the urban silhouette. Most of these houses have courtyards and has two floors.
HIGHLANDS The plateau is located to the southeast of Muğla province at 3 km. distance to the city center. The plateau is plaited with roads called İrim and is a beautiful and cool promenade place with its cold water, fertile land, high plane trees, abundant fruit trees, grapes, vegetables, tobacco and a local property "Kuyu Büryanı " (Well Büryan) and with the whitewashed houses visible among the evergreen trees. As the sound of the birds are mixed with the water pumps drawing cold water from the wells of the houses, a different natural beauty appears. The tradition of living at the high cool plateaus during the hot summer days is still continuing.
SPORTS ACTIVITIES Rafting : The Dalaman Creek flowing between Marmaris and Fethiye Districts is a suitable place for rafting purposes in all seasons. Camp sites : There are numerous camp sites of Ministry of Forest at the province of Muğla and its districts.
The dominant climate of the Muğla Province is the terrestrial climate which is under the effect of the Mediterranean climate. The summer seasons are hot and dry while winter seasons are mild and precipitant. The precipitation is dense generally in months of November and March. The average annual temperature is 14.9.
The known oldest inhabitants of the region are the Leleg and Kar nations whose existence was understood from the remnants and findings belonging to BC 3000 years. The region had entered under the reign of Persian, Alexander the Great, Bergama, Roman, Byzantine, Seljukian, Menteşe State and Ottoman civilizations afterwards.
WHERE TO EAT Muğla and its districts reflect the properties of Turkish Kitchen with its rich meal varieties. Especially the variety of the vegetable meals and pastries is amazing. Tarhana (soup with dried yogurt), ara and dutmeş (soups); çopur, döş, çızdırma, gürlen kebab, sura, Roasting with honey, dövme köfte (battered meat ball) and karın - kumbar stuff (meat meals); every type of fish grill and steamed, fish with rice (fish); hardal boiled, börülce kavurma (roasted kidney bean), sirken otlaşı, ekşili biber (sour pepper), galli patlıcan (aubergine) (vegetable ); ballı kabuk (shell with honey), üzüm köftesi (grape rissole) , hoşmerim, pekmez reçeli (molasses jam), grape, tomato, aubergine and marrow jam (deserts) are the local food culture varieties which are worth tasting . You should try......
WHAT TO BUY
DON'T LEAVE WITHOUT - Visiting Bodrum, Fethiye, Köyceğiz, Marmaris and Datça districts,
Sites
CONTACT INFORMATIONS Governorship : (+90-252) 214 10 01 Provincial Cultural Directorate : (+90-252) 214 83 43 - 214 60 06
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Golden Horn: This horn-shaped estuary divides European Istanbul. One of the best natural harbours in the world, it was once the centre for the Byzantine and Ottoman navies and commercial shipping interests. Today, attractive parks and promenades line the shores, a picturesque scene especially as the sun goes down over the water. At Fener and Balat, neighbourhoods midway up the Golden Horn, there are entire streets filled with old wooden houses, churches, and synagogues dating from Byzantine and Ottoman times. The Orthodox Patriarchy resides at Fener and a little further up the Golden Horn at Eyup, are some wonderful examples of Ottoman architecture. Muslim pilgrims from all over the world visit Eyup Camii and Tomb of Eyup, the Prophet Mohammed’s standard bearer, and it is one of the holiest places in Islam. The area is a still a popular burial place, and the hills above the mosque are dotted with modern gravestones interspersed with ornate Ottoman stones. The Pierre Loti Cafe, atop the hill overlooking the shrine and the Golden Horn, is a wonderful place to enjoy the tranquility of the view. 
Beyoğlu and Taksim: Beyoglu is an interesting example of a district with European-influenced architecture, from a century before. Europe’s second oldest subway, Tunel was built by the French in 1875, must be also one of the shortest – offering a one-stop ride to start of Taksim. Near to Tunel is the Galata district, whose Galata Tower became a famous symbols of Istanbul, and the top of which offers a tremendous 180 degree view of the city. 
Ortaköy: Ortakoy was a resort for the Ottoman rulers because of its attractive location on the Bosphorus, and is still a popular spot for residents and visitors. The village is within a triangle of a mosque, church and synagogue, and is near Ciragan Palace, Kabatas High School, Feriye, Princess Hotel. 
Üsküdar: Relatively unknown to tourists, the suburb of Üsküdar, on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, is one of the most attractive suburbs. Religiously conservative in its background, it has a tranquil atmosphere and some fine examples of imperial and domestic architecture. 
Burgazada Smaller and less of a tourist infrastructure is Burgazada. The famous Turkish novelist, Sait Faik Abasıyanık lived here, and his house has been turned into a museum dedicated to his work, and retains a remarkable tranquil and hallowed atmosphere. 
Environment: Wide beaches of Kilyos at European side of Black Sea at 25th km. outside Istanbul, are attracting Istanbul residents during summer months. Belgrade Forest, inside from Black Sea, at European Side is the widest forest around Istanbul. Istanbul residents, at week ends, come here for family picnic with brazier at its shadows. 7 old water tank and some natural resources in the region compose a different atmosphere. Moğlova Aqueduct, which is constructed by Mimar Sinan during 16th century among Ottoman aqueducts, is the greatest one. 800 m. long Sultan Suleyman Aqueduct, which is passing over Golf Club, and also a piece of art of Mimar Sinan is one of the longest aqueducts within Turkey. 
Polonezköy, which is 25 km. away from Istanbul, is founded at Asia coast during 19th century by Polish immigrants. Polonezköy, for walking in village atmosphere, travels by horse, and tasting traditional Polish meals served by relatives of initial settlers, is the resort point of Istanbul residents. Beaches, restaurants and hotels of Şile at Black Sea coast and 70 km. away from Üsküdar, are turning this place into one of the most cute holiday places of Istanbul. Region which is popular in connection with tourism, is the place where famous Şile cloth is produced. 
The summer months in Istanbul are generally hot and quite humid. The winters can be cold and wet, although not as extreme as other areas of the country. June, July and August see temperatures creep up to 30 degrees, with very little rain. Spring and autumn are popular times to visit because of the comfortable climate, good for lots of walking and sightseeing, with highs between 15 – 25 degrees C, in April, May, September and October. By the winter, the dry cold air mass from the Black Sea and cold damp front from the Balkans brings a chilly season with daytime highs of between 10 – 15 degrees C, and nights much colder. Although rarely falling to freezing point, there is the occasional light snow in the city. 
The city has been conquered, fought over and rebuilt many times over the centuries. Istanbul’s history dates back to the first settlement possibly in the 13th Century BC, although was founded by Byzas the Megarian in the 7th Century BC, from when the city was named Byzantium. A small colony of Greeks inhabited the area until 3rd Century BC, and over the next 1000 years became a thriving trading and commercial centre. Whilst continuing life as a trading city during the Roman Empire, it was then conquered by Emperor Septimus Severius in 193 AD. 
The Istanbul kitchen is regarded as one of the best in the world. Ingredients, chefs, styles and tastes came from every part of the Empire to the capital, making the Ottoman Turkish kitchen significant in world cuisine. But Turkish cuisine has not ceased to develop, and is growing and enhancing long after the end of the Empire. 
Many people come to Istanbul for the shopping alone. The Kapali Carsisi, or Covered Market, is the logical place to start as the area and variety is immense. Still the commercial centre of the old city, the bazaar is the original shopping “mall” with a vast selection of carpets, souvenirs, clothes, shoes, jewellery and handicrafts made from ceramics, copper and brass. Many shops have recently sprung up around Aksaray selling leather, suede and fur coats, catering mainly for Russian and Eastern European buyers. The Misir Carsisi is good for picking up spices, locum, flavoured teas and small souvenirs. (See section on Bazaars.) 
- Seeing two of the master pieces of religious art of Istanbul, Süleymaniye Mosque and Sultanahmet Mosque, 
Homer's description of Bodrum as "The land of eternal blue" and the words of another resident of Bodrum, Cevat Şakir, who said "The heavenly bliss of life in Bodrum is better than any eternal bliss that may await us" were not without foundation in reality. Throughout history Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others. 
Bodrum has been the cradle of several civilizations. Down through the ages it has suffered from the countless invasions of those coming from the Aegean islands and has been important to all those powers wishing to dominate the Aegean.Halicarnassos(Bodrum) was an important city in the Caria civilization which was located between its much more powerful neighbors Lykia and Ionia. The region boasts such greats as the historian Heredotus, history's first woman admiral Artemisia I, and the just-as-skilled Artemisia II as well as artists like Leachares and Shepas. 
The Underwater Archeological Museum of Bodrum 
Stratonikeia 
Built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 15th century and dedicated to St. Peter, the construction of the castle was completed in 99 years. It was built on Zephyrion island, the original site of the city of Halicarnassos.Stones and reliefs from the Mausoleum of King Mausolos were used in its construction. There are 5 towers in this castle; French, English, Italian, German and Snake towers. The castle covers approximately 30,000 sq. meters. 
Gümüşlük: It is one of the oldest settlements on the peninsula. It is still possible to see the underwater remains of the old harbor wall which connected Tavşan Island to the mainland. The sea and fish here are famous. Watching the sun set here amidst the lush green vegetation will be a life-long memory. 
With everything from manufacturing and maintenance to repair and operation, the yachting center of Turkey is Bodrum. The tradition of building schooners continues in the İçmeler Shipyard, whose name has become almost synonymous with Bodrum itself. As big as many modern shipyards, luxury sailboats up to 30 meters can be built here using the latest available technology. 
On the Aegean coast, Bodrum is famous for its colourful life. Besides the vitality and colourfulness of the city in the daytime, Bodrum is also renowned for its exceptionally appealing nightlife From İskele Square to the end of Kumbahçe District, Cumhuriyet Street is lined with bars, pubs, discos and taverns that guarantee fun and good times for people of all ages. In the mysterious darkness of the Bodrum nights, the magical shimmer that surrounds Bodrum castle adds a certain charm to the atmosphere. The heartbeat of the city's nightlife is in the bars of Bodrum where every kind of music, from jazz to tavern music, can be heard.
Handicrafts in Bodrum are very developed. The beads, leather clothes, cloth, silver jewelry, embroidery, decorations and many other items made in Bodrum are sold on the broad street between İskele Square and Halikarnas Disco.Bodrum has bazaars open six days a week where everything, from needle to thread, from fruit to snacks, can be bought. These bazaars also sell scarves and curtains made of 100% hand-made Milas cloth and hand-painted batik clothing and other decorative items.
Seeing the Underwater Museum and Bodrum Castle,
Area: 13.338 km² 
Central Muğla Museum : At the Turollan Park section of the museum, fossils discovered and excavated from three fossil beds located at the northern skirts of Kaklıca Hill which is approximately 1 km. northeast of Özlüce Village are exhibited. 
Asar Hill (Masadağ - Mobolla) : The Asar Hill which is located at the upper skirts of the today's Muğla urban site and the hill is steeply rising in the directions of west, south and east and having a plain peak and therefore known as the Masa Dağ (Table Mountain) by the local folk. The hill displays a rare natural texture and also contains important archeological ruins. The castle located here is the "Mobolla" Castle which is mentioned in the ancient Hittite inscriptions and is founded on the most suitable hill for the defense of the ancient settlements founded at the region of today's Muğla province. At the lower plain area in front of this site, open air sacred places are clearly visual reflecting the 2nd thousand Anatolian Hittite and 1st thousand Frig and Urartu traditions and continuing their existence at the Carian and Lykian regions at the late periods. The rampart ruins of the Mobolla castle constructed from the rectangular blocks are preserved well. There is a medieval palace constructed from mortared debris stone blocks and having at least three floors which is settled over high terraces located to the north of the plain. There are burial grounds and tombs at the eastern and western skirts of Mobolla castle.
TRADITIONAL MUGLA HOUSES
GEOGRAPHY
HISTORY
Carpet business is the most common hand craft at the villages of Milas, Bodrum and Yatağan districts. The pileless carpet and destar textile industry is very developed in Fethiye. The forged copper hand works are present at the districts of Yatağan and Kavaklıdere subdistrict. Some of the souvenirs of the region could be counted as the carpets of Milas, Bodrum and Yatağan districts, pileless carpets and destar textile products of Fethiye district, forged copper products of Kavaklıdere Subdistrict.|
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