BODRUM MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY

The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, located in the historic Bodrum Castle in Turkey, is a premier institution dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of underwater artifacts. Founded in 1964, it houses a vast collection of treasures recovered from shipwrecks in the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, showcasing the rich maritime history of the region. The museum's displays are organized thematically across the castle's many halls and towers, with notable sections including the Uluburun Shipwreck, the Glass Wreck Hall, and the Carian Princess Hall.

The Uluburun Shipwreck exhibit is particularly significant, featuring artifacts from a Late Bronze Age trading vessel, including gold jewelry, copper ingots, and ivory. This display offers insight into ancient trade networks and craftsmanship. The Glass Wreck Hall, another highlight, presents the remains of an 11th-century ship that carried a cargo of Islamic glassware, illustrating the medieval glass trade.

The museum also emphasizes educational outreach, providing detailed information about underwater archaeology techniques and the importance of preserving submerged cultural heritage. Through its impressive collections and engaging presentations, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology serves as a crucial link to understanding the seafaring history of the ancient Mediterranean world.