Ancient Myndos was probably founded by the native Leleges people. Today, the remains of the ancient city lie southeast of the modern settlement. The Leleges and Carians once inhabited the hillsides of the Bodrum Peninsula. Following the Doric migration, they settled where the fortress now stands, integrated with the new residents, and founded Halicarnassus.
King Mausolus founded the city of Myndos in the 4th century B.C. The city walls, three kilometers long, were constructed of green granite quarried from the nearby bay known as Koyunbaba. These fortifications were destroyed by Alexander the Great's soldiers during his campaign. Traces of the ancient theatre and stadium remain visible today.
Myndos played a significant role in the struggle between Cassius and Julius Caesar. Cassius harbored his grievance against Caesar and prepared his troops in Myndos, imposing considerable hardship on the local residents. Though he defeated the Rhodian fleet, he could not avoid his eventual doom.
The Eklisia Church, where art and cultural festivals are held today, dates from the Roman era.
The people of Myndos were known for their unusual practice of drinking brackish water, as they mixed their wine with seawater.