Located on the western edge of the Bodrum Peninsula, the Ancient Stone Quarry in the town of Gumusluk is not just a natural formation, but a highly significant archaeological heritage site that once served as the primary source of stone for the ancient city of Myndos. Today also known as the "Koyunbaba Stone Quarry," this area supplied the monumental buildings of Bodrum and its surroundings with construction stone over thousands of years.

Historical Background and the Myndos Connection

Myndos, one of the prominent cities of the Ancient Period, underwent a major reconstruction under the rule of Mausolos, the satrap of Caria, in the 4th century BC. During this period of intense urban development, the stone needed for the construction of city walls, temples, and other structures was supplied from the Koyunbaba Stone Quarry, located only 3 km from the city. The green andesite stones extracted from this quarry were used in the walls of Myndos and in the foundation blocks of the famous Mausoleum (Mausoleion) in Halicarnassus.

Archaeological Findings and Stone Characteristics

Archaeological studies have shown that the stones extracted from the Koyunbaba Quarry match perfectly with architectural remains in Myndos. These stones have a jade-like texture that is easy to shape and aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, they were used not only in city walls and temples but also in harbors, piers, and filler blocks. Known for its water resistance, this stone helped shape the architectural character of the Bodrum Peninsula for centuries.

The Quarry and Maritime Transport

Remains of an ancient loading dock have been discovered along the rocky shoreline just in front of the quarry. Carved mooring holes, platform traces, and recesses used to load block stones indicate that this area was used for maritime stone transport. This reveals that the Koyunbaba Stone Quarry functioned not only as a local but also a regional stone supply center.

Economic and Architectural Impact

In antiquity, stone quarries held strategic importance. The Koyunbaba Quarry, in this context, directly influenced the architectural development of cities like Myndos and Halicarnassus by supplying necessary construction materials. Activities such as stone cutting, loading, transportation, and processing also contributed to the local economy.

Current Status and Conservation Efforts

Today, the Koyunbaba Ancient Stone Quarry is an open-air archaeological site accessible to visitors. However, the downgrading of the protected status of the Myndos Ancient City in 2022 has raised concerns about the preservation of the quarry. Local residents and environmental groups have organized protests and campaigns to safeguard this unique heritage.

A Living History Through Cultural Events

As part of the annual Gumusluk Classical Music Festival, the Koyunbaba Quarry is used as a concert venue. The acoustics reflected by the millennia-old stone surfaces create a unique atmosphere when combined with classical music. These concerts help promote the ancient quarry and indirectly support its preservation.

The Gumusluk Ancient Stone Quarry has made a significant contribution to the architectural and historical identity of Bodrum as a natural window into the past. Continuing to study and actively protect this unique site holds great importance both for regional history and cultural continuity.