Located in the heart of southwestern Turkey, the modern town of Milas preserves the legacy of Mylasa, one of the most important and largest cities of ancient Caria. Once the capital of the Carian Kingdom, Mylasa was a major political, religious, and economic center that played a significant role throughout the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.

Although much of ancient Mylasa has disappeared beneath the modern settlement, important monuments and archaeological remains still reveal the greatness of this ancient Anatolian city. With its rich history, sacred traditions, impressive architecture, and connection to nearby ancient sites, Milas remains one of the most fascinating destinations in the Aegean region.

History of Mylasa

The name Mylasa is believed to have Anatolian origins, suggested by the ending “-asa,” which appears in several ancient place names of western Anatolia. Ancient sources indicate that the city was among the earliest settlements established in Caria.

The Greek geographer Strabo described Mylasa as one of the three most important cities of Caria, highlighting its political and cultural significance.

One of the earliest historical references to Mylasa dates back to the period of Persian rule, when the city was governed by a local ruler appointed by the Persian satrap. However, the city reached its greatest prosperity during the early 4th century BC, especially under the rule of powerful Carian leaders including:

• Hekatomnos
• Mausolos
• Other members of the Hekatomnid dynasty

During this period, Caria experienced a cultural and architectural revival, and Mylasa became one of the region’s most influential cities.

The Early Location of Mylasa

Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest settlement of Mylasa may have been located near Beçin Castle, approximately 5 kilometers from modern Milas.

Unlike many Carian cities that were built on steep rocky hills for defensive purposes, Mylasa eventually moved to its present location in the 4th century BC. This new location provided access to high-quality marble resources, which became one of the city’s greatest advantages.

The marble quarries around Mylasa supplied building materials not only for the city itself but also for surrounding settlements throughout Caria.

Mylasa During the Hellenistic Period

Even after the Carian capital was moved to Halicarnassus (modern Bodrum), Mylasa continued to maintain its importance as the leading inland city of Caria.

During the Hellenistic period, the city experienced several changes in political control:

• It came under the influence of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt
• Later, it was captured by Antiochus III of Syria
• Eventually, the region became connected with the Macedonian kingdoms

Mylasa increased its influence by establishing political and cultural relationships with neighboring cities. Many important settlements, including:

• Euromos
• Miletus
• Labranda
• Olymos

were closely connected with Mylasa through alliances and shared citizenship traditions.

Roman Period and Reconstruction

After the Roman victory over Antiochus III of Syria, Caria was temporarily placed under the authority of Rhodes. However, dissatisfaction with Rhodian rule led to conflict between the Carians and Rhodes.

The dispute ended when Rome intervened and ordered Rhodes to withdraw from the region.

In 40 BC, Mylasa suffered severe destruction during conflicts involving Roman and Parthian forces under Labienus, a former supporter of Brutus and Cassius.

Following this disaster, the people of Mylasa appealed to Emperor Augustus for assistance. Historical inscriptions indicate that Augustus supported the rebuilding of the city. In gratitude, the citizens constructed a temple dedicated to:

• Emperor Augustus
• Goddess Roma

This marked the beginning of a new period of Roman influence and prosperity.

Byzantine and Ottoman Periods

During the Byzantine era, Mylasa became an important Christian center and served as an Episcopal see under the authority of the bishop of Stavropolis.

In the 14th century, the city was conquered by the Menteşe Principality, one of the Turkish Anatolian beyliks. It later became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1425, beginning a new chapter in its long history.

Today, the modern town of Milas continues to preserve elements of its multicultural past, combining ancient Carian heritage with Ottoman traditions.

Ancient Religious Heritage of Mylasa

Religion played a central role in ancient Mylasa. According to Strabo, the city possessed three important temples dedicated to Zeus, the most revered deity among the Carians.

The Carian form of Zeus was worshipped under several names, reflecting local traditions and regional identities. Although none of these great temples have survived intact, archaeological discoveries, especially coins depicting Zeus holding a spear and a double-headed axe, provide evidence of his importance.

The double axe, known as the labrys, became one of the strongest symbols of Carian religious identity.

Important Monuments of Ancient Mylasa

The Temple

One of the remaining structures from Roman-era Mylasa is a small 1st-century BC Corinthian-order temple.

Built on a raised podium, the monument provides valuable information about the architectural style of the period. The carved Corinthian columns and surrounding masonry have helped archaeologists date the structure.

Although only fragments remain, it represents the continuation of Mylasa’s religious traditions during the Roman era.

Baltalı Kapı: The Gate of the Axe

One of Milas’ most remarkable ancient monuments is Baltalı Kapı, meaning “Gate with the Axe.”

This impressive Roman gate takes its name from the carved double axe symbol located above the main arch. The symbol represents Carian Zeus and reflects the religious identity of ancient Mylasa.

The gate formed part of the city walls and was connected to the sacred road leading from Mylasa to Labranda, one of the most important religious sanctuaries of ancient Caria.

Dating from approximately the 2nd century BC, Baltalı Kapı remains one of the best-preserved reminders of the ancient city.

Gümüşkesen Monument

The Gümüşkesen Monument is among the finest surviving ancient structures in Milas.

Dating from the 2nd century AD, this Roman funerary monument is considered a smaller regional interpretation of famous Hellenistic mausoleums.

The structure includes:

• A high podium
• Columned sections
• Stepped foundations
• A possible statue at the top

Its design reflects the influence of monumental tomb architecture found throughout ancient Caria.

Temple of Augustus and Roma

The Temple of Augustus and Roma was built after the destruction of Mylasa in 40 BC as a gesture of gratitude toward Emperor Augustus for helping rebuild the city.

Unfortunately, the temple has completely disappeared, and only historical references and inscriptions provide information about its existence.

Visiting Ancient Mylasa Today

Although modern Milas has grown over much of the ancient settlement, visitors can still discover important traces of its remarkable past.

Highlights include:

• Baltalı Kapı
• Gümüşkesen Monument
• Ancient temples
• Ottoman-era houses
• Nearby Beçin Castle
• Labranda Sanctuary
• Euromos Ancient City

The surrounding region is also rich in natural beauty, traditional villages, olive groves, and coastal attractions connected with the nearby Bodrum Peninsula and Lake Bafa.

Why Visit Mylasa?

Ancient Mylasa offers travelers a chance to explore a lesser-known but highly significant chapter of Anatolian history. Once the capital of Caria and a center of religion, politics, and culture, the city reveals the deep historical layers that shaped southwestern Turkey.

For visitors interested in ancient civilizations, archaeology, and authentic Aegean experiences, Milas provides a fascinating journey through thousands of years of Carian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage.