Study of Aydın’s tangible cultural heritage takes its history as far back as the prehistoric period. Located on fertile land as well as on important thoroughfares and due to the city’s commercial status, Aydın has repeatedly been devastated by wars waged by powers on quests to expand their own territories. In antiquity cities like Tralles and Aphrodisias made their mark with products such as pottery, sculpture and leather. Miletus harbour boosted the city’s commerce and economy.