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The world is home to some remarkable ancient cities, which have stood proudly over time and continue to inspire awe and admiration. These cities, with their rich history and cultural heritage, offer a fascinating insight into how civilisations developed and functioned in ancient times. By exploring these archaeological treasures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the origins of modern societies and their connections to the past.
Among the most ancient cities in the world are those with histories spanning millennia, reflecting both continuity and change across the centuries. The intricate details of these cities’ architecture, urban planning, and art bear evidence of the skills and innovations of early human settlements.
As researchers uncover more about remarkable ancient urban centres, the most ancient cities in the world contribute much to our knowledge of world history and the development of cities over time. They not only shed light on their unique stories and the people that lived in them. They provide a greater appreciation of human ingenuity and perseverance.
Exploring these captivating places is a humbling experience. The resilience and tenacity of the people who built them, and the legacies they left for future generations can only be marveled at and learnt from.
Oldest Cities in the Middle East
Egypt: Luxor and Memphis
- Luxor is located in the south of Egypt on the east bank of the Nile. It is often regarded as the world’s most significant open-air museum due to a vast collection of ancient monuments. The city, originally called Thebes, served as the capital for ancient Egyptian civilisation during the New Kingdom period. Luxor includes impressive ancient sites such as the Karnak Temple Complex and the Luxor Temple.
- Memphis, another ancient city in Egypt, was founded around 3100 BCE by Pharaoh Menes. It served as the capital during the Old Kingdom period. This city witnessed the construction of some of the most iconic structures in Egypt, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx.
Syria: Aleppo and Damascus
- Aleppo is located in northern Syria and is one of the most ancient cities in the world. It has always been inhabited as archaeological evidence dating back to the early Neolithic period around 8,000 years ago confirms. The city has a rich history of many civilisations who left their mark. The Hittites, Assyrians, and Alexander the Great were among them.
- Damascus, the capital of modern Syria, is an ancient city with a long history dating back to the Neolithic period. Throughout history, Damascus has been ruled by a variety of empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks. The city is home to ancient sites such as the Umayyad Mosque, which was built during the early Islamic period.
Lebanon: Byblos and Sidon
- Byblos, situated on the coast of modern-day Lebanon, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Human settlement dates back to the Neolithic times around 9,000 years ago. Byblos played a crucial role as a trade centre for the ancient Phoenicians. And it was a key site for the production of papyrus that was used throughout the Mediterranean world.
- Sidon, another ancient city in Lebanon, was also an essential Phoenician city with a rich archaeological and cultural heritage. Established in the 4th millennium BCE, Sidon was a vital port, and its inhabitants were renowned for their naval skills. They were fine glassmakers, and also traded in purple dye – highly valued in the ancient world.
Palestine: Jericho
Jericho, located in the West Bank, is considered one of the most ancient cities in the world. Some say it is the first city on earth, with evidence of human occupation dating back more than 11,000 years. The city, situated near the Jordan River, provided fertile soil for agriculture, leading to the growth of ancient civilisations. Throughout history, Jericho has been under the rule of different empires, including the Roman Empire and the Islamic Caliphate.
Ancient Cities of Greece
Athens: Birthplace of Democracy
Athens, the capital of modern Greece, is home to some of the world’s most significant ancient sites. The city has a rich cultural history which dates back to the 5th century BCE. Athens is recognised as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilisation. It is where renowned philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle once lived and walked the streets.
The iconic Acropolis of Athens dominates the cityscape. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Athens’ stunning ancient architecture had a huge impact on the Romans, who incorporated Greek designs into their own structures.
Argos: Legendary Greek City
Located in the Peloponnese region, Argos is one of Greece’s oldest cities which is still inhabited. Its history can be traced back to the 3rd millennium BCE. Greek mythology tells of the city being founded by Argos Panoptes, a legendary hero with 100 eyes.
According to historical records, the city of Argos once rivalled Athens and Sparta in terms of power and influence. The remnants of its ancient architecture, such as Hera’s Temple and the Larisa fortress, have captivated tourists and scholars throughout time.
Sparta: Ancient Warrior Society
Sparta, located in the southern part of the Peloponnese peninsula, is well-known for its ancient warrior society. Having emerged as a powerful city-state around the 10th century BCE, Sparta rose to prominence during the Greco-Persian Wars and became one of the leading cities in ancient Greece.
The Spartans established a unique culture, focusing on military training and prowess. The people of Sparta were committed to creating an undefeatable army. It included young boys beginning their military education as early as seven years old.
The archaeological site of Sparta remains a popular destination for historians, archaeologists, and travellers. Also those interested in the ancient Greek way of life, particularly the unique Spartan society.
Ancient Cities of Persia
Persepolis: Ancient Capital of Persia
Persepolis, located in present-day Iran, was the ancient capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Founded by King Darius I in the 6th century BCE, it represented the cultural, political, and architectural magnificence of ancient Persia. The city is home to several well-preserved structures. They include the Palace of Darius, Hall of 100 Columns, and the Apadana Palace, reflecting the grandeur of its time.
The architecture in Persepolis showcased the harmonious blend of various artistic traditions, such as Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and Greek influences. The remaining artefacts from the city provide valuable insights into the lives of people, their customs, and beliefs. Today, Persepolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site which attracts many travellers intrigued by its splendour.
Susa: Ancient Persian Capital
Susa, in Iran, gained prominence as a capital in the Elamite, Persian, and Parthian periods. Susa’s history predates the Achaemenid Empire, with archaeological evidence linking it to ancient Mesopotamia and dating back to 4000 BCE. The strategic location of Susa allowed it to grow into one of the largest cities in the world during ancient times, rivalling those of Athens, Greece, and Damascus.
The cultural and historical significance of Susa is evident in the numerous artefacts unearthed by archaeologists, such as statues, pottery, and inscriptions. The city’s architectural marvels include the Apadana Palace, the Darius Tomb, and the famed Archers’ Frieze. As with Persepolis, Susa is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Susa’s rich history, coupled with a massive infrastructure, makes it an essential piece of ancient Persian heritage. Both Persepolis and Susa remain testaments to the grandeur and influence of ancient Persia. They offered travellers and history enthusiasts a glimpse into the past and some remarkable achievements.
Ancient Cities of India and China
Varanasi: Ancient City in India
Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Banaras, is considered one of the oldest and still inhabited cities in the world. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, this ancient city is a major cultural and religious centre in India. Known for its numerous temples, ghats and winding alleys, Varanasi has been a place of immense significance for Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
The city’s history goes back about 3,000 years. Evidence suggests settlements existed there in the 11th or 12th century BCE. The vibrant culture of Varanasi is reflected in its rich traditions of music, dance, and arts, passed down through generations. As a prominent religious centre, Varanasi attracts a diverse population of pilgrims and travellers who visit the ghats to participate in rituals, worship at temples, or simply absorb the sacred atmosphere.
Notable monuments in Varanasi include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath (where Buddha gave his first sermon), and the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Archaeologists, scholars and travellers from across the globe continue to be intrigued by the city’s ancient sites and its enduring cultural legacy.
Luoyang: Ancient Chinese Capital
Luoyang, situated in China’s Henan province, is another ancient city with a rich history dating back over 4,000 years. The city has served as the capital for 13 different dynasties, including the;
- Xia,
- Shang,
- Zhou, and
- Tang dynasties.
Thus, Luoyang was a centre of politics, economy, and culture in ancient China.
The city is home to numerous historical sites, monuments, and ruins that bear witness to its illustrious past. One of the most impressive sites is the Longmen Grottoes – a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a vast collection of intricately carved Buddhist statues within a series of caves. Luoyang is also known for the White Horse Temple, regarded as the first Buddhist temple in China, and the Luoyang Museum which houses artefacts from various Chinese dynasties.
Throughout its ancient history, Luoyang has seen the rise and fall of many civilisations and played a crucial role in the development of Chinese culture. Scholars, archeologists, and travellers continue to explore the city, seeking to unravel the mysteries lost to time.
Cities Lost to Time
As the cradle of human civilisation, many ancient cities have risen and fallen throughout history, leaving behind a wealth of cultural and historical treasure for the modern world to admire. Susa and Ai-Khanoum are two of the most ancient cities in the world lost to time, whose ruins reveal temples, settlements, monuments, and glimpses of ancient history.
Susa, in modern-day Iran, is another remarkable example of an ancient city lost to time. Emerging as an important capital of the Elamite civilisation around 4400 BCE, Susa continued to thrive under different empires, such as the Achaemenids and the Parthians. The city’s ruins showcase an abundance of cultural heritage, with the famed statue of Darius I and the impressive remains of Apadana Palace, a testament to the city’s importance as a political and economic hub of the ancient world.
Afghanistan, often an overlooked destination for ancient history enthusiasts, is home to the Bactrian ruins of Ai-Khanoum. Founded in the 4th century BCE as a Hellenistic capital, this city is an exquisite example of Greco-Bactrian culture melding with eastern influences. The excavated ruins reveal a diverse array of structures, including a temple, a palace, a gymnasium, and other public buildings.
Final Thoughts
The ancient cities we have explored in this article offer unique insights into the past and the foundations of today’s global cultural narrative.
Despite the ravages of time, these millennia-old settlements continue to inspire awe, admiration and travel, as their monuments, ruins, and artefacts enrich our understanding of human civilisation through the ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the oldest cities in existence?
Some of the oldest cities in existence include Jericho in the West Bank, Damascus in Syria, and Aleppo in Syria. These ancient cities have origins dating back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation spanning several millennia. Their rich cultural and historical heritage continues to fascinate researchers and tourists alike.
Which ancient cities are recognised by UNESCO?
UNESCO recognises many ancient cities for their cultural and historical significance. Some examples include the ancient city of Sumerian Uruk in Iraq, the ancient Maya city of Tikal in Guatemala and the historic city of Rome in Italy. These World Heritage Sites are under the protection of UNESCO, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
What are the oldest villages globally?
The oldest villages globally include Çatalhöyük in modern-day Turkey and Tell es-Sultan in Jericho, the West Bank. Çatalhöyük dates back to around 7500 BCE, while Tell es-Sultan goes even further back to around 8000 BCE. Both sites are recognised for their significance in the study of early human settlements and the development of agriculture.
Which European cities have the most ancient origins?
In Europe, some of the cities with ancient origins include Athens in Greece, Lisbon in Portugal and Cadiz in Spain. Athens, known for its Acropolis and Parthenon, is believed to have been inhabited since at least 3000 BCE. Lisbon and Cadiz also have histories spanning millennia, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the pre-Roman period.
What locations hold the title for the oldest places in the world?
The title for the oldest places in the world is held by various locations, depending on the criteria used. In terms of human habitation, Jericho is one of the oldest continuous settlements. In contrast, other areas such as the Fertile Crescent region, which encompasses parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel and Egypt, are considered the birthplace of agriculture and the earliest civilisations.
Which ancient cities feature in the top 10 list for the oldest in the world?
The top 10 list for the oldest cities in the world typically features ancient cities such as Jericho, Damascus, Aleppo, Byblos in Lebanon, Susa in Iran, and Varanasi in India. These cities have significantly contributed to human history and civilisation, and their archaeological remains offer insights into the development of urbanisation, trade, and culture throughout the ages.