Lesbos, near the Hellespont trade routes (modern Dardanelles), long has had strategic and commercial importance.

The oldest artifacts found on the island date to the Paleolithic period.

Important archaeological sites on the island are the Neolithic cave of Kagiani, probably a refuge for shepherds, the Neolithic settlement of Chalakies, and the extensive habitation of Thérmi (3000–1000 BCE).

In 1929-33, the British School excavated Thérmi, north of Mytilene, and Antissa, both important early Bronze Age (c. 3000-2750 BCE) towns.

Thérmi apparently was settled by Troas, judging from its Troy I-like black pottery.)

The largest habitation is found in Lisvori (2800–1900 BCE) part of which is now submerged in shallow coastal waters.