One of the fabled Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a gigantic and elaborate tomb constructed for Mausolus, the powerful ruler of Caria. Situated in modern-day Bodrum, this is still an atmospheric site with attractive gardens and excavated columns to explore.
Built in 350 BC as a gigantic tomb for the Persian satrap, or local ruler, Mausolus, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus once rose to a height of around 45m and was revered as an architectural and artistic masterpiece.
Located in what is today the Turkish city of Bodrum, the Mausoleum was adorned with statues, Ionic columns, marble sculptural reliefs and a stepped pyramidal roof topped with a chariot carrying images of Mausolus and his wife - who was also his sister - Artemisia.
The monument made such an impression on visitors that its name became a byword for all grand tombs, and was counted among the Seven Wonders of the World, alongside the Pyramids of Giza and the Colossus of Rhodes.
The monument made such an impression on visitors that its name became a byword for all grand tombs
This awe-inspiring structure stood for more than 1500 years, before being destroyed by an earthquake at some point during the Middle Ages. It was in ruins by 1402, when the Knights of St John used many of its larger stones to build Bodrum Castle.
In the 19th century, the site was rediscovered by British archaeologists, and statues and other architectural fragments were removed and sent to the British Museum, where they are still on show.
Although relatively few remains of this great building today, the excavations offer a glimpse into the fascinating history of this important site, with original columns and other finds alongside copies of the friezes which once adorned the mausoleum.
Just a few streets away from the marina and the waterfront in Bodrum, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus is an easy excursion for those visiting Turkey's Mediterranean coastline on a private yacht charter.
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