Aspat Castle was built during the reign of King Mausolus as a strategic watchtower. The remains date back to the classical period and belong to the ancient city of Termara. Termara was one of the 12 ancient settlements on the Bodrum Peninsula. During King Mausolus of Halicarnassus' reign, the citizens of Termara were relocated to Halicarnassus. The bay overlooked by the castle served as a pirate refuge for centuries. The castle was constructed on a rocky hill and features five watchtowers. The castle's perimeter measures 700 paces, though the interior is completely destroyed.
The anchorage offers breathtaking sunset views and panoramic vistas well worth the climb. This sheltered historic bay provides an exceptional stop for maritime explorers.
A famous poetic song, the Çökertme Folk Song, is often performed at weddings and festive occasions. It originates from this region, as Yalıkavak was formerly called Çökertme. Based on a true story, the song's lyrics recount this tale: In the early years of the Turkish Republic, a charming girl from Bitez Yalısı, Çakır Gülsüm, fell in love with a sailor named Halil. They became engaged, but the new Bodrum mayor also loved Gülsüm. He ordered the gendarmes to eliminate Halil. When Halil was sailing from Çökertme to Bodrum with his vessel, the gendarmes shot and killed him at Aspat Point. Thus, the mayor won the woman he loved.