The Museum of Underwater Archaeology is a fascinating showcase of maritime artifacts recovered from the waters off Turkey’s coast. Walk on the full-scale reconstructions of centuries-old ships. Spot displays of ancient jewellery, armour, maps and murals. The museum is situated in Bodrum Castle, where ramparts offer sweeping views of Bodrum’s coastline.
The museum has 14 exhibition halls, which spread throughout the rooms and towers of the castle. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, thus allowing visitors to touch and feel the artifacts. Go to the castle’s chapel, where you can step onto a reconstruction of the East Roman Ship. This shipwreck dates back to the 7th century. In the Carian Princess Hall you can see a tomb and golden crown thought to belong to Queen Ada. She was a ruler of the ancient Greek region of Caria during the 4th century B.C.
Find Bronze Age artifacts, such as pots, chalices and tools, in the Uluburun Shipwreck Hall. Dating back to the 14th century B.C., it is widely considered to be the world’s oldest recovered shipwreck. See a collection of ancient monetary units in the Coins and Jewellery Hall and ceramic vessels in the Amphora Exhibition. Learn about medieval slavery in the Galley Slave Exhibit, located in the castle’s dungeon.
After exploring the shipwrecks enjoy panoramic views from the castle’s towers and ramparts. Spot the luxury yachts and fishing boats moored at Bodrum Marina. Gaze along Bodrum’s coastline and out across the Aegean Sea to the Greek island of Kos.
The Museum of Underwater Archaeology and Bodrum Castle sit on a promontory on the east side of Bodrum Marina. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Bodrum’s town centre, which is home to bars, restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and there is an admission fee. Some exhibition halls close at lunchtime so check the museum’s official website for the exact opening hours. Follow the colour-coded arrows that suggest long and short routes around the exhibition halls. Allow about 2 hours to visit all of the exhibits.
