Termera was one of the Leleg-descended cities of the Caria region and was inhabited from the Early Iron Age onwards; ancient sources mention it as a polis member of the Delian League. In the 4th century BCE, during the time of Maussollos, the satrap of Halikarnassos, the city's inhabitants were forcibly relocated to Halikarnassos and the city served for a time as a place of exile. Today, on Asarlık Hill, one can see the remains of an acropolis surrounded by inner and outer walls, rock-hewn cisterns, and remnants of an entrance gate. It is not a maintained archaeological site; the ruins are set within nature and are openly accessible.
Ancient Bodrum
Termera Ancient City (Asarlık)
An ancient Leleg-Carian city rising on Asarlık Hill in the southwestern part of the peninsula.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Termera Ancient City (Asarlık) and what is it like?
An ancient Leleg-Carian city rising on Asarlık Hill in the southwestern part of the peninsula.
What are the visiting hours?
Open area; no set visiting hours.
Is there an entrance fee?
Free admission (not a maintained archaeological site).
How do I get there?
Access via footpath from the Akyarlar-Bağla area; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Map
Nearby places
Ancient
Bodrum-Halikarnassos
Bodrum's ancient name is Halikarnassos, one of the most important centers of Carian civilization. It once hosted the Mausoleion, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, and was also the birthplace of Herodotus. Today, this ancient city, still living within modern Bodrum, presents a unique open-air stage of history where past and present intertwine.
Ancient
Mausoleion
Mausoleion is a monumental tomb built in the 4th century BCE by Artemisia for her husband Mausolos, Satrap of Caria. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this structure stands as one of the most impressive examples of architectural and sculptural artistry in history. Today, the word "mausoleum" itself takes its name from this monument.
Medieval
Bodrum Castle
Bodrum Castle, built in the 15th century by the Knights of St. John, stands as an important structure elevated with stones taken from the ruins of ancient Halikarnassos. Both a powerful example of medieval defensive architecture and a cultural center that today houses one of the world's most significant underwater archaeology museums, Bodrum Castle is a living testament to centuries of history.
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