Walking in the Footsteps of Maussollos: Cultural Heritage and Nature Unite in Bodrum and Milas 2025
Join the “Walking in the Footsteps of Maussollos” cultural and nature event on 25 October 2025, connecting Bodrum and Milas through ancient history. Explore the Uzunyuva Monumental Tomb, Labraunda Sanctuary, and the fascinating legacy of Caria with guided tours and storytelling.
Rediscovering the Ancient Path from Mylasa to Halikarnassos
A brand-new cultural journey is about to unfold in southwest Turkey — one that blends archaeology, storytelling, and nature into a single unforgettable day.
On Saturday, 25 October 2025, the “Walking in the Footsteps of Maussollos” event invites locals and visitors to retrace the legendary route from Milas (ancient Mylasa) to Bodrum (ancient Halikarnassos), echoing the migration of Satrap Maussollos, the powerful ruler of Caria in the 4th century BC.
Organized in partnership between Bodrum Municipality, Milas Municipality, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this remarkable experience combines archaeological discovery with the tranquility of a nature walk — uniting two cities that have shaped Anatolia’s historical and cultural identity.
Event Details: A Journey Through Time and Landscape
📅 Date: Saturday, 25 October 2025
📍 Key Sites: Uzunyuva Monumental Tomb & Museum Complex, Labraunda Sanctuary
For Participants from Bodrum
- 🕙 Departure: 10:00 AM – from Bodrum Old Bus Station
- 📞 Registration: Bodrum Municipality Department of Culture and Social Affairs
Tel: 444 00 48 (Ext. 4515)
For Participants from Milas
- 🕚 Departure: 11:00 AM – from Milas Municipality Additional Service Building
- 📍 Registration Address: Hisarbaşı-Hocabedrettin Mah., Belediye Cad., Çöllüoğlu Han, Floor 1, City Archive
⚠️ Seats are limited — early registration is strongly advised.
The Legacy of Uzunyuva Monumental Tomb
The first stop on this cultural journey is the Uzunyuva Monumental Tomb and Museum Complex in Milas.
This impressive structure, adorned with intricate stone carvings and friezes, is believed to be the mausoleum of Hecatomnus, father of Maussollos. The tomb represents the architectural brilliance of Caria’s golden age — merging Persian elegance, Greek precision, and Anatolian craftsmanship.
The museum built around this ancient site houses rare artifacts, inscriptions, and sculptures that illustrate the cultural evolution of the Carian civilization. For visitors, it is not just a museum but a portal to the 4th century BC, where rulers and artisans once shaped the destiny of an entire region.
Labraunda – The Sacred Sanctuary of Zeus Labraundos
From Milas, the route continues to the mystical Labraunda Sanctuary, nestled among pine-covered mountains.
This site was one of the most sacred places in ancient Caria — a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus Labraundos, the divine protector of the Carian people.
Visitors will walk among monumental temples, sacred altars, and the remains of processional roads once used by pilgrims and rulers. The breathtaking views from Labraunda — overlooking valleys filled with olive groves and cypress trees — create a timeless atmosphere that connects mythology, faith, and natural beauty.
The sanctuary’s stone terraces, inscriptions, and banquet halls reveal the spiritual and political influence the Hecatomnid dynasty wielded in the region. Standing here, it’s easy to imagine Maussollos himself visiting this sacred place for divine inspiration before founding his new capital in Halikarnassos.
Bodrum and Milas: Two Cities, One Heritage
The Maussollos Route is far more than a walking event — it’s a living story of cultural continuity.
It reconnects Milas, the cradle of Carian power, with Bodrum, where Maussollos’ dream reached its peak through the creation of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
This project aims to revive the ancient connection between Mylasa and Halikarnassos, celebrating shared heritage, preserving archaeological treasures, and promoting sustainable cultural tourism.
For both locals and international visitors, this route is a reminder that history, art, and nature are deeply intertwined across the landscapes of Muğla.
A Celebration of Culture, Nature, and Community
The “Walking in the Footsteps of Maussollos” event offers something for everyone:
- 🌿 Nature Lovers: Enjoy an outdoor walk through the scenic countryside of Milas and Bodrum.
- 🏺 History Enthusiasts: Learn about ancient Carian architecture and mythology from expert archaeologists.
- 📸 Photographers: Capture the perfect shot among ancient ruins and panoramic mountain views.
- 🤝 Community Connection: Meet new people, share experiences, and celebrate local culture.
- 🎓 Educational Value: Understand how ancient Anatolian civilizations influenced the wider Mediterranean world.
It’s not just an excursion — it’s a living classroom where history breathes through every step.
Cultural Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The event’s success is rooted in collaboration between Bodrum Municipality, Milas Municipality, and the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Together, they aim to preserve archaeological sites, support local tourism, and inspire eco-friendly travel practices.
By focusing on sustainable cultural tourism, the project aligns with Turkey’s broader goal of promoting heritage routes that benefit both the environment and local communities.
Each participant contributes to preserving these ancient stories for future generations — turning history into a source of modern connection.
How to Join the Maussollos Route 2025
Taking part in this unforgettable cultural walk is simple:
- Contact the Bodrum Municipality Department of Culture and Social Affairs or Milas Municipality to register.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and a camera.
- Arrive at the designated meeting points on time for departure.
- Immerse yourself in history and enjoy the journey!
Walking the same path that Maussollos once traveled centuries ago allows participants to feel the pulse of ancient Caria, a civilization that shaped both Anatolia and the Mediterranean world.
Step Into History This October
On 25 October 2025, history and nature will meet once again in the lands of Bodrum and Milas. The Maussollos Route 2025 invites everyone to take part in a meaningful experience that unites culture, archaeology, and community spirit.
Whether you’re a traveler, student, or local resident, this event promises a day filled with knowledge, inspiration, and scenic beauty.
Step into history. Walk the path of Maussollos. Rediscover Caria.