Nothing much needs to be said about it's history since this can be found practically everywere on the internet. Suffice it to say that I personally had a wonderful day there. Went there by Dolmus (Simple and cheap Turkish bus transport : try it !) and had the whole day to myself.
My first three pages are maps : one in general, one my walking way in, and one my walking way out. From the picture names you can guess where you are. Though my numbering does NOT match the chart's (sorry !).
What to see ? The Library, the Covered Villa's (wall paintings) and on the way back the (see map : nr 13) Harbour Gymnasium & Baths. When you walk out to the last, please note not to run around everywhere. Please stay on the trodden path or use your eyes very well ! There are cisterns and/or cellars (underground, possibly covered by long grass) and their holes are NOT marked ! Use a stick PLUS your eyes ! Apart from that this area is beautiful and moreover : it is quiet.