The International Gümüşlük Classical Music Festival began in 2004 as a small piano festival under the direction of pianists Gülsin Onay and Eren Levendoğlu, and has grown to become one of Turkey's most important music festivals. The 'Stone' concerts take place in an ancient stone quarry with 25 centuries of history and a capacity of 1,000 people—this is the very quarry from which the stones of the Mausoleion of Halikarnassos were extracted. The 'Water' and 'Sand' (Clay House) concerts are held at the festival center on Gümüşlük's shoreline. The program spans from classical and jazz to ethnic and experimental music, and the Festival Academy nurtures young talent.
International Gümüşlük Classical Music Festival (Ancient Stone Quarry Concerts)
An international music festival held every summer since 2004, featuring concerts in an ancient stone quarry, by the seaside, and in a clay house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is International Gümüşlük Classical Music Festival (Ancient Stone Quarry Concerts) and what is it like?
An international music festival held every summer since 2004, featuring concerts in an ancient stone quarry, by the seaside, and in a clay house.
What are the visiting hours?
Summer season (typically July-August); Stone concerts begin around 21:15, Water/Sand around 20:30 (times vary by year).
Is there an entrance fee?
Concert tickets are paid admission (varies by event).
How do I get there?
Gümüşlük shoreline festival center and ancient stone quarry; accessible by car or dolmuş.
Map
Nearby places

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.
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.

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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