Aegean Insight – History and Culture in the Carian Capital Milas

Milas is an oft-forgotten cultural center hidden in plain sight between some of Turkey’s most popular destinations. This tour will give participants a deeper understanding of true Aegean culture and how it’s changed over the centuries.

First we’ll visit the ancient entrance to the city, Baltali Kapi or Axed gate, just the first of many traces of Milas’ ancient past. Walking through the narrow streets, we’ll pass the Aga and Belen Mosques, both of which used ancient materials in their construction. We pass through the pedestrian-only bazaar, gazing into a variety of craftsmens’ shops before reaching the farmer’s market. We’ll spend some time chatting with the local producers and shopping for traditional ingredients, which will be cooked for us in a local tavern. Our next stop is the tomb of Hekatomnos, father of Mausolos, whose own tomb gave us the word ‘mausoleum’. The tour concludes with our farmers’ market dinner and drinks at a restaurant in the bazaar.

Visit the monumental tomb of Hekatomnos, father of Mausolos whose similar tomb gave us the word Mausoleum. The museum complex consists of the base structure of the tomb, replicas of its contents, and information about the architecture of Milas, both ancient and modern. Our history guide will also be on hand to explain the unbelievable story of the tomb’s discovery.

Milas is home to more villages than any other county of Turkey and this is most obvious at its extensive farmers’ market. Colorful villagers from the surrounding mountains and plains gather every Tuesday to sell their incredible produce and catch up with friends and customers. Our culinary guide will lead you through the busy rows of sellers, explaining unique ingredients, introducing you to the locals, and answering any questions.

Once the ancient entrance to the Carian Capital of Mylasa, today ‘Baltalı Kapı’ or ‘Gate of Axes’ sits in a lively neighborhood of Milas, a perfect example of the combination of ancient and modern that makes Milas so special. Adorned with a double headed axe, the symbol of Caria, our tour begins from this ancient arch.

This is a 14th century mosque that was constructed partially with ancient artifacts.

A local restaurant in the bazaar where our farmers’ market finds will be served.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Total duration includes walking around the town.

• Aegean Insight – History and Culture in the Carian Capital, Milas
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• including private transport
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  Transport: Includes private transport from/to your hotel

• Entrance Fees
• Farmers’ market purchases for the tour

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Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Roots Adventure Travel.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Istanbul.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 12 Travelers is accepted for booking.