Türkei Kultur und Reise Portal

Ortakent is located at the crossing of all the village roads. That's why it is one of the most important centres of the Bodrum Peninsular. It is located 14 kilometres from the centre of Bodrum and is famous for its tangerine orchards, old restored houses and long sandy beaches. The houses are really picturesque and are excellent examples of the regional architecture. The oldest one, dating from 1602, is the Tower House of Mustafa Pasha and it is believed to have been built as part of the town's defences.

The beach in Ortakent Yahsi Yalisi is the longest one on the peninsula. All kinds of water sports are available on the beach. The crystal-clear, calm water has a blue flag certificate representing its cleanliness. It is not as hot during the day as you might think because there is always a light breeze blowing. The narrow street near the beach does not allow any motor vehicles. On the side of the street furthest from the beach, there are hotels and lovely fish restaurants to suit every budget. From the area behind the beach all the way up to Bodrum you will see green plains covered with citrus trees.

About one kilometre from the beach area, pottery, ceramics and bronze artifacts have been excavated and are now on display in the Bodrum Underwater Museum. According to local historical sources, there have been Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman settlements in this area. On the site of Çakmaklı, there was a Temple of Apollo which was converted into a church in the Byzantine period where the head priest was named Episkopi. It is believed that the name Müsgebi came from the local name of Episkopi.