SALMAKIS
Salmakis Bay, which is located west of Bodrum harbor, is famous because of the legend of Hermaphrodite. According to this well-known legend, Hermaphrodite, Hermes, and Aphrodite’s son, came to Salmakis and wanted to swim at Salmakis Lake. But the nymph of the Salmakis Lake fell in love with this handsome young man. Not having any response to her passion, Salmakis got angry and swam toward Hermaphrodite, embraced him firmly, and prayed to the gods not to separate them. Salmakis and Hermaphrodite became one body with both sexes’ features starting from that time.
Discovery of Salmakis Inscription
Salmakis and its famous fountain are mentioned by ancient writers such as Vitrivius, Strabon, and Ovid. But, the discovery of an inscription at the site proved the legend’s accuracy.