No comprehensive revision of Micromeria is available and uncertainties about the taxonomy of the genus have lasted for a long time. Since the last synopsis many new data from both morphological and molecular genetic studies have been accumulated and, consequently, the number of accepted taxa and the delimitation of the genus have changed considerably. The authors provide a review of recent and unpublished research on the genus, a new circumscription and description of the genus and an updated distribution map. All published Micromeria names are listed with a reference to their current taxonomic position. Names of taxa currently placed in Micromeria are provided with type citations. A new combination, M. cristata subsp. kosaninii, is validated, along with the new name M. longipedunculata for the illegitimate M. parviflora of Reichenbach. The author standard abbreviation E. F. Chapm. is proposed for one of the authors of M. graeca subsp. cypria and 24 names are typified. Taxonomic problems needing special attention in future research are identified.