According to the foundation myth preserved by Stephanus of Byzantium, Aiani was founded by Aianos, the son of Elymos, the founder of Elimeia. It was one of the kingdoms of ancient Upper (mountainous) Macedonia, situated roughly in the region of Western Macedonia.

The existence of the city is confirmed by two inscriptions from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Ancient historical sources mention the names of four Elimeian kings in the 5th century BCE (Arrhidaeus and three named Derdas).

Aiani played an early role as the capital of Elimeia, as the existence of a city with the name Elimeia is disputed.