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Bodrum has been one of the leading maritime destinations The secret behind success of Bodrum people in maritime
since the beginning of history. According to historian Hero- since ancient times is hidden in their craftsmanship in ship-
dotus, Carianian (Gündoğan) captain Skylax served as the building. Started with building vessels similar to tirhandil
captain of the Persian navy for many years. The first navi- vessels of Caria people, the first owners of Bodrum, the
gation book in the world known as “Periplus of Skylax” was boat construction in Bodrum changed over time and turned
created by the notes on Mediterranean Sea besides other into today’s “Bodrum Gulet”.
seas. Alexander the Great ruled his navy in the light of re-
spective notes. In the Ottoman Empire period, Turgut Reis Today, Bodrum Gulets are described as traditional Mediter-
was raised from being a shepherd in Karatoprak (today’s ranean sailboats that can be characterized with long round
Turgutreis) to being captain of the Ottoman fleet. stern.

Bodrum has become an important local shipbuilding centre
since the time of King Mausolous, one of the most famous
th
kings of 4 century BC. King Ptolemy of Egypt made war ships
rd
built in Bodrum in the 3 century BC.
These boats, which were originally used for cargo shipment,
were later used for fishing and sponge hunting.

A Journey to Muğla 89