Miletus at the Bay of Milet next to Menderes river

Thursday, 16 January 2025 00:00
Written by Portal Editor

Miletus is located (an hour away from Didim) in the city of Soke's Balat village. In ancient times it was on the western coast of Anatolia (currently the province of Aydın), near the Maeander River in ancient Caria.

Miletus was one of the most famous of Ionian harbours. In Hittite records its name was Millawandash. It was famous during the classical period which the scholars called "fusiolog". Herodotus wrote that it was founded by the Cretans and Carians. It was also an important Micanean colony towards the middle of 2000 B.C.

Geology

During the Pleistocene epoch the Miletus was submerged in the Aegean Sea. Consequently, it emerged slowly, the sea reached a low level of about below present level at approximately 18,000 BP.

The site of Miletus was part of the mainland. A gradual rise brought a level of about below present at approximately 5500 BP, creating several karst block islands of limestone, the location of the first settlements at Miletus.

At about 1500 BCE the karst shifted due to small crustal movements and the islands consolidated into a peninsula. Since then, the sea rose 1.75 m but the peninsula has been surrounded by sediment from the Maeander River and is now land-locked. Sedimentation of the harbour began at about 1000 BCE and by 300 CE, Lake Bafa had been created.

History of Miletus

In the 7th century B.C. the Miletus people had founded about 90 colonies in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. Unfortunately, after its destruction by the armies of Darius in 494 B.C. it was reconstructed and was under Persian rule for two centuries.

With the conquest of Alexander The Great it became one of the greatest metropolis of Aegean Anatolia and throughout the Roman period as well.

Yet, in the Byzantine period, despite the fact that the sea had withdrawn, the commercial port could still be used thanks to the ships which sailed through the Menderes River. This was because the remains of the antique buildings resembled palaces.

It was known as Palatia for certain period of time and during the last days of Byzantine rule it became a shelter of pirates.

Then, in the 8th century it was converted into a Turkish town by the Mentese principality and named Balat. Although it went through a period of splendour during the rule of Menteşeoğulları and then gradually it lost its importance.

In the 18th century it turned into a small village and the village mentioned was moved elsewhere after the 1955 earthquake.

Milet: The Ancient Town in Turkey

Nestled in the picturesque region of western Turkey, Milet, or Miletus, is an ancient city that holds a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural marvels. Known as one of the most significant cities of ancient Ionia, Milet has captivated historians, archaeologists, and travelers for centuries.

From its illustrious past as a center of commerce and philosophy to its stunning ruins, this ancient town offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.

A Brief History of Milet

Origins and Early History

Milet’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, making it one of the oldest settlements in Anatolia. Initially inhabited by the Carians and later influenced by the Minoans, the city underwent several transformations over the centuries.
By the 8th century BCE, Milet had become a leading city of Ionia, thriving as a hub of trade and intellectual activity.

Golden Age of Philosophy and Science

Milet is famously known as the birthplace of philosophy. It was home to great thinkers like Thales, considered the first philosopher in Western history, and his successors, Anaximander and Anaximenes.
These philosophers laid the foundations for scientific thought and rational inquiry, earning Milet a reputation as the cradle of ancient Greek philosophy.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

Under Roman rule, Milet continued to flourish, with significant architectural developments, including theaters, temples, and baths.
During the Byzantine era, the city served as an important Christian center, although it eventually declined due to natural disasters and changes in trade routes.

Exploring the Ruins of Milet

Today, Milet’s ruins offer a fascinating journey back in time. Key highlights include:

1. The Great Theater

One of the most iconic landmarks of Milet, the Great Theater, could accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. Built during the Hellenistic period and later expanded by the Romans, it stands as a testament to the city’s cultural and architectural prowess.
Visitors can explore the theater’s well-preserved seating tiers and imagine the grand performances that once took place here.

2. The Temple of Apollo Delphinios

Dedicated to Apollo, the god of light, music, and prophecy, this temple was a central place of worship in ancient Milet.
Though now in ruins, the remaining columns and foundations offer a glimpse into its former grandeur.

3. The Faustina Baths

Named after Faustina, the wife of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, these baths are a striking example of Roman engineering and luxury.
The complex includes sections for hot and cold baths, along with intricate mosaics and marble decorations.

4. The Bouleuterion

The Bouleuterion, or council house, was where the city’s leaders gathered to make decisions. Its semicircular seating arrangement and central stage reflect the importance of civic life in Milet.

5. The Harbor Monument

Milet was once a bustling port city, and the Harbor Monument marks its importance in maritime trade. Although the harbor has long since silted up, the monument remains a symbol of the city’s commercial legacy.

The Significance of Milet in Ancient Trade

Milet’s strategic location on the Aegean coast made it a vital trading hub in antiquity. The city established colonies across the Mediterranean and Black Sea, fostering cultural and economic exchanges. Its wealth and influence were unparalleled, and it became a melting pot of ideas and innovation.

How to Visit Milet Today

Location and Accessibility

Milet is located near the modern town of Didim in Turkey’s Aydın Province. It’s easily accessible by car or guided tours from major cities like Izmir or Bodrum.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Milet is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild, making it ideal for walking among the ruins.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit to Milet with trips to other ancient sites like Didyma, known for its impressive Temple of Apollo, and Priene, another Ionian city with stunning ruins.