Miletus was an important Ionian city founded on the coast in the 14th century BC by the Carians. Today it lies far from the sea due to the alluvial deposits carried by the Meander River. The people of Miletus established colonies throughout the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions and developed extensive trade relations with Egypt. After 650 BC, they resisted Persian invasions in Anatolia but were ultimately defeated. The city was destroyed by the Persians, and 80 Milesian ships were burned at Lade Island.
In the 5th century BC, the architect Hippodamus rebuilt the city according to a grid plan. Following Persian domination, the city came under the control of Alexander the Great. Miletus regained power during the Roman period, but continuous silting in the harbor area led to an inevitable economic decline.
Miletus played a significant cultural role throughout history. The architects of Hagia Sophia, Antemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus, were both from this city. After the rule of the Menteşeoğulları Emirate, Miletus came under Ottoman control in 1424. During the Ottoman era, the city served as an important maritime trading center.
The city's theatre was first constructed in the 4th century BC and rebuilt in the 2nd century AD. Four separate harbors were located around the peninsula on which the city was established. The Bay of Lions was the most important of these harbors. The two carved lion figures visible today mark the anchor points of chains that were used to close the harbor entrance during times of danger.
The İlyas Bey Mosque at the archaeological site was built in 1404 and has recently been restored. The decorative stone carving and vaulted entrance with its stalactite work are exceptionally well executed.
The ruins of the ancient city's Agora, Baths, Bouleuterion (Senate building), and the on-site Museum are all worth visiting.
Archaeological excavations began in 1873 with French archaeologists, and were later continued by German archaeologists. Excavation work was interrupted at times due to wars. Miletus excavations are currently conducted by German archaeologists.