Miletus is a ruined Ionian city and one of the most significant sites of ancient Greece. It’s a city of grandiose architecture that includes a huge amphitheater, Byzantine fortress and Roman baths. Miletus is over 2,000 years old and holds an important place in history and folklore. It was once the home of great philosophers such as Hecataeus and Thales, the so-called father of science.
As you approach the ruins your first sight will be the enormous Hellenistic amphitheater. Built in the 4th century B.C. and later remodeled by the Romans, in its heyday the amphitheater could seat an audience of 15,000 spectators. Look for four columns in the first two rows, which mark an area reserved exclusively for emperors. Climb the steps to the top of this 30-meter (100-feet) tall arena for panoramic views of the city. Imagine a time when the city sat on a peninsula with three harbors.
Behind the amphitheater is a Byzantine fortress that presents more sweeping views and below is a Heroon, a Hellenistic hero’s graveyard. Check out the Baths of Faustina, constructed on the orders of the wife of a Roman emperor. While here, admire the water fountains and impressive lion statues.
Find more Hellenistic monuments in the city’s North Agora. These include a ruined gymnasium and a rebuilt Ionic colonnade. Don’t miss the Delphinion, a shrine dedicated to the sea god Apollo Delphinios. Afterwards, walk around the Bouleuterion, which was an ancient Greek senate building.
The ruins of Miletus sit on the west coast of Turkey, about a 2-hour drive from Bodrum. Rent a car and visit the city along with the ancient ruins of Didyma and Priene. Paid parking is available at the entrance to Miletus. Organized tours also depart regularly from Bodrum. Ask at your hotel for information.
The ruins are open daily and there is an admission fee. Allow at least 2 hours to visit all of the sites within the city. Arrive early in the summer months to avoid the scorching afternoon sun and large tour groups.
