23 Sept, 2013
While we were in Kos (Greece) we decided to take the day
ferry across to Bodrum in Turkey to see the Bodrum Castle which was constructed
in 1402 by the Knights of St John and became known as the Castle of St
Peter. It was completed in 1413 and over
the next 100 years it was a safe haven for Christians
in Asia Minor.
(Remember to click on the photos to enlarge them)
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| Bodrum Castle as seen from our Ferry |
However, it was under continual attack with the rise the Ottoman
Empire and during this time the Knights continually fortified the Castle using
square green volcanic stone, marble columns and reliefs from a nearby Mausoleum.
The Castle was held by the Knights until 1522 when it was handed over to the
Sultan. The bits and peaces seen below remain in the English Tower where the English Knights lived. The other 3 Towers were closed.
From then on the Castle was used for many different purposes including
a military base during the Greek revolt in 1824, a prison in 1895 and a
garrison for the Italians after World War1.
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| Tom with yet another strong door |
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| We tried to show the size of this enormous anchor. |
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| Fran trying to look like Hadrian |
Once again we needed Tom and the large camera to capture these exquisite pieces of glass which are housed in an extremely dark room.
However, we felt that the jewel in the crown of the museum
collection was the preserved 14th century shipwreck found near Kas-Uluburun in 1982. This shipwreck contained 10 tons of
Cypriot copper ingots, one ton of pure tin ingots, manufactured goods,
Myceanaen pottery and Egyptions seals with a seal of Queen Nefertiti. It was
just amazing!
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| This shipwreck was enclosed in a glass case in a very dark room. Thanks to Tom we have this photo |
If you have the opportunity to visit Bodrum do not miss the
this site as it is truly fantastic!
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