The Best Museums to Visit in Muğla

Renowned painter and sculptor Ender Güzey opened ARTHill in Bodrum to display his more than 40 years worth of work that has been exhibited all around the world. The museum’s structure, which is reminiscent of a cube riding on the horns of a bull, is an architectural feat in its own right and was designed by the artist himself. Güzey is most known for his project Noah’s Ark, a raft and performance stage for other artists that sailed on the Bosphorus. Apart from exhibiting his works for future generations, the museum also host the works of other artists as well as events.

One of Turkey’s most important singers whose extravagant outfits paved the way for future generations of Turkish artists, the Zeki Müren museum in the singer’s former home in Bodrum is a true treasure. Harking back to a more liberal Turkey during the 60s and 70s, the museum displays Müren’s extravagant stage outfits, personal belongings, awards, and paintings are all on display.

More of an arts and culture village than a museum, Dibeklihan’s stone houses are all filled with beautiful art exhibitions, arts and crafts shops, design ateliers, jewelry workshops, and much more. The colorful village is also quite the popular spot for weddings and events such as live concerts when the sun goes down and the lanterns begin to flicker romantically. You’ll also be happy to know that the art and design village also features the Dibek Restaurant where you can rest your feet and enjoy some authentic regional cuisine.

No mention of museums would be complete without the very classic Bodrum Castle that overlooks the sultry summer town from its beachside perch. Built in 1402 to serve the Knights of St. John (a medieval Catholic military order), the impressively preserved castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archeology. One of the biggest museums to display discoveries of ancient shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea, the museum also features a former chapel with a display of findings from the Mycenaean and Bronze Ages, the tomb of a Carian princess, and one of the world’s largest ancient glass object collections.

This gorgeous hotel right by the sea not only has private villas and enough outdoor space for memorable events, but also focuses strongly on art. Casa dell’Arte’s The Art Department (a non-profit that provides resources for the production of art projects and educational programs) displays the art collection of the founding family as well as hosting exhibitions by local and international artists. The hotel also hosts an annual artist residency program.