Ionian Migration: What Happened
After the collapse of the Mycenaean world, groups of Greeks crossed the Aegean and settled along the western coast of Asia Minor, in modern Turkey. This movement, traditionally dated to around 1050 BC, is known as the Ionian Migration. According to Greek tradition, it was led from Athens by the sons of King Codrus, including Neleus, who was said to have founded Miletus. The settlers established cities such as Miletus, Ephesus, Smyrna, Phocaea and Samos, which later formed the Ionian League. Archaeology supports Greek settlement in the region during this period, though it probably happened gradually over generations rather than as one planned expedition. The migration had lasting consequences. Ionia became one of the richest and most creative parts of the Greek world. It was the likely home of Homer, and in the 6th century BC it produced the first Greek philosophers and scientists, including Thales and Anaximander of Miletus. Greek communities remained in Asia Minor for about 3,000 years, until the population exchange of 1923 brought that long history to an end.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Ionian Migration?
The Ionian Migration was the settlement of Greeks along the western coast of Asia Minor, in modern Turkey, traditionally dated to around 1050 BC. The region became known as Ionia.
Which cities did the Ionians found?
The Ionians founded or settled cities such as Miletus, Ephesus, Smyrna, Phocaea, Colophon and Teos, as well as the islands of Samos and Chios. Twelve cities later formed the Ionian League.
Who led the Ionian Migration?
According to Greek tradition, it was led from Athens by the sons of King Codrus, including Neleus, who was said to have founded Miletus. Historians believe the real settlement happened gradually over generations.
Why was Ionia important?
Ionia became one of the richest and most creative parts of the Greek world. It was the likely home of Homer and the birthplace of Greek philosophy and science, with thinkers such as Thales of Miletus.
What happened to the Greeks of Ionia?
Greek communities lived in Asia Minor for about 3,000 years. Their presence ended with the Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922 and the population exchange of 1923, when they moved to Greece.
