The Ionian city of Smyrna has grown in the seventh century from modest beginnings into a stately city, with massive fortifications and blocks of two-storied houses.

When the Mermnad kings raised the Lydian power and aggressiveness, Smyrna had been one of the first points of attack.

Gyges, who regned from about 687 to 652 BCE,was, however, defeated on the banks of the Hermus, the situation of the battlefield showing that the power of Smyrna extended far to the east.

A strong fortress was built probably by the Smyrnaean Ionians to command the valley of Nymphi, the ruins of which are still imposing, on a hill in the pass between Smyrna and Nymphi.

According to Theognis, who will flourish around 500 BCE, it was pride that destroyed Smyrna.

Mimnermus laments the degeneracy of the citizens of his day, who could no longer stem the Lydian advance.

Finally, Alyattes of Lydia conquers the city and sacks it, with its inhabitants forced to move into the countryside.

Although Smyrna does not cease to exist, the Greek life and political unity are destroyed, and the polis is reorganized on the village system.