Bodrum Castle of St. Peter, Turkey

Castle of St. Peter (Bodrum Castle) is located in southwest Turkey in the port city of Bodrum in Mugla Province; it was built from 1402 onwards, by the Knights of St John, hence the name ‘Castle of the Knights’ sometimes. For over a century the castle served as a refuge for all Christians in Asia Minor. The castle came under attack after the fall of Constantinople in 1453 and again in 1480 by Sultan Mehmed II. The Knights of St John repelled the attacks. When you enter the castle they will give you a guide map of the castle which is self-explanatory and when you get to various places such as the jewelry room, coin room, and ship room you will find sufficient information and facts about these items.

You can also opt for a guided tour and hear about the history of Bodrum Castle and its contents including the man in shackles found in the dungeon. You will pay more for a guided tour; I usually use Viator to book guided tours in advance. Otherwise, you can check with your hotel for recommended tours.

Museum of Underwater Archaeology at Bodrum Castle

Inside Bodrum castle, you will find the Museum of Underwater Archaeology where collections of various items, such as amphorae, taken from shipwrecks are displayed. An amphora is a type of container of characteristic shape and size. These containers were used in vast numbers for the transport and storage of various products, both liquid and dry, but mostly for wine.

You will also find a model of the Yassiada vessel. This ship is approximately 16 meters long and 5 meters wide and has a cargo capacity of around 35 tons. The keel of the ship is made of elm wood; the planks and frames are pine.

Useful Information of Bodrum Castle

Ladies, you may want to wear flats or not so high heels because there is a lot of walking, elevations, etc.  Please know that in summer it is very hot; sometimes over 50 degrees Celsius. Dress appropriately and don’t forget sunglasses.

Getting there

If you use public transport to go to Bodrum Castle, you will have to take mini-busses from wherever you are around Bodrum to Bodrum bus terminals. From the bus station, follow the main road called ‘Cevat Sakir Cd’ that goes down to the port. This road is full of shops and restaurants.

When you reach the bend where the road connects with another road to its right called ‘Neyzen Tevfik Cd’, take the second left turn into a road called ‘Muftu Yakup Ones Cd’; the castle is on your left. The distance from Bodrum bus terminals to the castle is 700m; about 10 minutes on foot. The castle is located right next to the port and very close to shopping streets in Bodrum. Address: The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archeology, Bodrum – Mugla – Turkey

Stunning views

You will find beautiful views right at the top of the castle; you can see most of Bodrum from its towers and the layout makes it easy to move around.  When you enter Bodrum Castle you will find places to sit and relax; you will also find a shop, café and clean toilets.

Bodrum Castle Entrance Fee & Opening Times

They charge to enter the castle grounds; you can get tickets at the castle entrance. They only accept Turkish Lira (TL) if you have cash. Alternatively, you can pay with major credit cards or a debit card. I paid 25 TL to enter when I visited the castle in May 2015.

Bodrum Castle is open from 8 am to 6:30 pm in the summer season but in winter it closes at 5 pm. For more information on fees and opening hours Click here.