Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Site),Turkey

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (built c. 350 BCE) is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It served as the tomb of Mausolus, a satrap of the Achaemenid Empire, and combined Greek, Egyptian and Lycian architectural elements. Its monumental scale and richly sculpted reliefs influenced funerary architecture for centuries.

Places to visit

  • Ruined platform and podium of the Mausoleum site within the medieval Castle of St. Peter (Bodrum Castle)
  • Archaeological remains of sculpted friezes and statues (some originals in the British Museum and Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology)
  • Reconstruction models and informative displays at the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology
  • Views over Bodrum and the harbour from the castle area where the Mausoleum once stood

Unique Aspects

  • Blend of Greek Ionic columns, Lycian tomb elements and an Egyptian-style pyramid roof
  • Multicolored sculpted friezes depicting battle scenes, processions and mythological figures
  • Historical continuity: site reused across Classical, Medieval and Ottoman periods
  • Materials repurposed in Bodrum Castle (15th century) after the site's partial destruction

Things to do

  • Explore Bodrum Castle and the area where the Mausoleum stood; view remaining podium stones and foundations
  • Visit the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology to see artifacts and reconstructions related to Halicarnassus
  • Walk the waterfront and old town of Bodrum for contextual history and local atmosphere
  • Guided archaeological tours that explain sculptural fragments and the site's history

Best Time to Visit

April to October (warm weather, many cultural events; July–August busiest and hottest)

Weather Conditions

Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer highs 30–35°C, winter lows 8–12°C.

Entry Fees & Permits

Entrance fee applies for Bodrum Castle and the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology (prices change; check updated local rates). Castle typically open daily with seasonal hours; museums often close one day per week—verify current schedules before visiting.

Accessibility

Site is within Bodrum town. Nearest airport: Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV) ~35–45 km by road. Regular buses, dolmuş (shared minibuses) and taxis connect Bodrum center. Castle and ruins have uneven surfaces and steps; accessibility for wheelchairs is limited in some areas.

Recommended Duration

Allow 2–4 hours to visit Bodrum Castle, museum and the Mausoleum remains; half to full day to explore Bodrum’s old town and harbour.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing in summer; comfortable walking shoes for uneven archaeological terrain; hat, sunscreen, and water. A light jacket for evenings in spring/autumn.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try local Aegean cuisine: seafood, mezze, olive oil-based dishes, and desserts like baklava. Souvenirs: ceramics, textiles, local olive oil, and replicas or literature about the Mausoleum and ancient Halicarnassus.

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