Assos was founded by the Aeolians of Lesbos in the 9th century B.C. The renowned philosopher Aristotle (385-345 B.C.) lived and taught here for three years. The Persians controlled this coastal region until the city was conquered by Pergamum; it subsequently came under Roman and Byzantine rule. The Ottomans took control of the city in A.D. 1330.
An archaic Doric temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena was constructed here in the 6th century B.C. It was the only temple of the Doric order in Asia Minor at that time. The temple is magnificently positioned high above the sea and rocks, commanding panoramic views across to Mytilene. The remains of the ancient harbor, agora, theatre, and gymnasium are remarkable sites worth exploring.
In the upper village of Behramkale, a 14th-century mosque stands as testament to early Ottoman architecture. The high-arched bridge spanning the Tuzla Çayı (ancient Satniois River), located north of the acropolis, is also an important example of early Ottoman engineering.