Mausoleum at Halicarnassus — Attraction in Bodrum

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a grand tomb built for King Mausolus of Caria, a satrap (governor) of the ancient Persian Empire, around 350 BC. Located in present-day Bodrum, Turkey, it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a testament to the wealth and power of the ancient city of Halicarnassus.

History and Construction The Mausoleum was built by King Mausolus' wife, Queen Artemisia, who was also his sister, after his death in 353 BC. The construction took around three years to complete and was designed by the famous Greek architects Satyrus and Pythius. The Mausoleum was famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful sculptures, and massive size.

Architecture and Design The Mausoleum was a massive structure, measuring around 120 feet tall and 100 feet wide. It was built on a stepped platform, with 36 massive columns supporting the roof. The tomb was famous for its beautiful sculptures, including massive statues of King Mausolus and Queen Artemisia riding a chariot, which were built by the famous Greek sculptor Scopas.

Significance and Legacy The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was an important cultural and historical landmark, showcasing the wealth and power of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. It was also a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the ancient Greeks. The Mausoleum's design influenced many other ancient tombs and buildings, including the famous Taj Mahal in India.

Destruction and Excavation The Mausoleum was destroyed by earthquakes in the 12th century AD, and its remains were used as a quarry for building materials. The site was excavated in the 19th century, and many of its remains are now housed in the British Museum.

Interesting Facts Built for King Mausolus: The Mausoleum was built for King Mausolus of Caria, a satrap of the ancient Persian Empire. Designed by famous architects: The Mausoleum was designed by the famous Greek architects Satyrus and Pythius. Famous for its sculptures: The Mausoleum was famous for its beautiful sculptures, including massive statues of King Mausolus and Queen Artemisia. Influenced many other buildings: The Mausoleum's design influenced many other ancient tombs and buildings, including the famous Taj Mahal in India. Destroyed by earthquakes: The Mausoleum was destroyed by earthquakes in the 12th century AD, and its remains were used as a quarry for...

No it's not Instagram worthy but this monument was ranked the seventh wonder of the world by the ancients, not because of its size or strength but because of the beauty of its design and how it was decorated with sculpture or ornaments. Although you won't see the sculptures or many ornaments, the museum does an excellent job piecing together the many phases this site went through and how in played a significant part in ancient history.

The Mausoleum overlooked the city of Halicarnassus for many years. It was untouched when the city fell to Alexander the Great in 334 BC and still undamaged after attacks by pirates in 62 and 58 BC. It stood above the city's ruins for sixteen centuries. Then a series of earthquakes shattered the columns and sent the bronze chariot crashing to the ground. By AD 1404, only the base of the Mausoleum was still recognizable.

Research done by archeologists in the 1960s shows that long before the knights came, grave robbers had dug a tunnel under the grave chamber, stealing its contents. Also the museum states that it is most likely that Mausolus and Artemisia were cremated, so only an urn with their ashes was placed in the grave chamber. This explains why no bodies were found.

25TL to enter. Spend 30 minutes here. Watch the video. Learn the history and love story. Then walk around to see what's left. I recommend walking across the street to see the amphitheater next and then the castle if you haven't seen it yet.

Bonus Focus on the relief above, right after you exit the video area. The story plays out what looks like to be war but is said to be an argument between a...

I recently visited the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and was truly impressed by the museum's efforts to showcase the remnants of what was once one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Despite the limited remains, the museum does an excellent job of preserving the historical significance of the mausoleum.

Walking through the museum, I was captivated by the quaint and historically rich atmosphere. The displays provided insightful information about the mausoleum's construction, its architectural grandeur, and its cultural significance during ancient times. It was truly a moving experience to learn about the craftsmanship and the stories associated with this remarkable structure.

One aspect that pleasantly surprised me was the affordable entrance fee. It allows visitors from all walks of life to appreciate and learn from this historical gem.

If you have an interest in ancient history or simply appreciate exploring cultural landmarks, I highly recommend visiting the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Despite its partial existence, the museum's dedication to preserving and sharing the mausoleum's legacy is commendable. Prepare to be transported back in time and gain a deeper understanding of this architectural marvel and its...