Bodrum's Ancient Echoes: Stratonikeia, Lagina, Etrim Village Tour

of Bodrum cruise port at your scheduled meeting time, holding a signboard with "YOUR NAME" on it.

Yalıkavak Yacht Marina at your scheduled meeting time, holding a signboard with "YOUR NAME" on it.

one of the significant archaeological sites in Asia Minor and has unique characteristics. The city continuously developed during the Classic, Hellenistic and Roman Imperial periods and gradually became a center of trade, art and culture. Stratonikeia has been known as the city of eternal love and gladiators throughout the ages. It was a center where gladiators were trained, did demonstrations and spent their life after retirement. Sport was clearly important to Stratonikeans, who built what might be the largest gymnasium in antiquity in the 2nd century B.C. just west of the north gate.

Regular festivities were held every year in Lagina, and grand festivities were held every four years on behalf of Hecate. How these festivities would take place and what to do were arranged according to certain rules. During the annual festivities, there were "Key Carrying" ceremonies that were held regularly and lasted for a few days. Thus, the ceremonies continued annually in a certain order. In the key-carrying ceremony, a choir of young girls was singing hymns, leaving Lagina, reaching Stratonikeia, declaring their devotion to the city, and coming back to the sanctuary. After this choir entered the sanctuary, religious ceremonies in the place began. The gates of the temple were opened by the attendant girl carrying the key. People who came to the sanctuary sat on the steps arranged along the western edge of the sanctuary and watched the ceremony.

e you will experience the authentic rural life of Bodrum. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of nature and the sea, making the journey just as memorable as the destination.

Nestled in nature, Etrim offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with local culture as it is lived today. During your private tour, you'll explore the village streets, observe the rhythms of rural life, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch made with local ingredients. Also, you will continue for weaving is a significant aspect of Turkish culture, with roots that trace back to Central Asia. This ancient tradition is still alive in this village today. During our tour, we’ll take a brief visit to a cooperative where world-renowned Turkish carpets are crafted, offering you the chance to learn about the intricate details of this age-old art form.

or Yalıkavak yacht marina or your hotel in Bodrum, depending on your pick-up location. We hope to welcome you back to Turkey soon for more unforgettable tours.