Bodrum Castle
The Knights of Rhodes in first started this impressive castle
after their capture of Bodrum in 1402 AD. It is situated on a rocky island in
the east of the main harbor. It occupies the area c.180 by 185 meters. Access
castle is done through seven major gates. A short ramp leads the visitors to
the first gate where a warning warns people about spying. Nearly 250 coat of
arms bear witness for the Christian occupation of the castle for a while.
Although the first walls were built by German architect Henrich Schelegelholt
between 1415-1437, the caste was renovated so many times to keep up with the new
ballistic weapons. During these renovations, the Knights of Rhodes used
carvings, architectural pieces, and columns of the Mausoleum, which had been
apparently destroyed by an earthquake. Italian Tower was built by architect
Ancelo Muscettola 1436. The fosse begun in 1476. John Candall built the
British Tower in 1480. Pierre d'Abusson did the most recent alterations in the
castle between 1476-1403
