Pedasa: Bodrum's Lost Lelegian City

Just a few kilometres from Bodrum's busy beaches and marinas, on the Gökçeler hill overlooking Konacık, lies a treasure most holidaymakers have never even heard of: the ancient city of Pedasa.

The Peninsula's Earliest Inhabitants

Pedasa is one of the oldest settlements on the Bodrum peninsula, founded by the Leleges, one of Anatolia's ancient peoples. In the Carian period it was considered one of the region's most strategic defensive positions. Today, on the hilltop, you can see the well-preserved defensive walls, Lelegian-type tumuli (rock tombs) and the remains of a Temple of Athena.

The Legend of the Oracle's Growing Beard

Herodotus, the father of history, records a curious belief about Pedasa: whenever danger threatened the city, the beard of Athena's priestess was said to grow. This strange legend is also a sign of just how important Pedasa was as a centre of prophecy and faith in antiquity.

How to Get There

Pedasa is reached by a short walk through nature, and entry is free. The reward waiting for you at the summit is not only the ancient ruins; it is also the breathtaking panorama of Bodrum and the bay. For those who want to experience history and nature together, this route so close to our hotel is one of Bodrum's most enjoyable escapes. For details, take a look at our Pedasa Ancient City page.