These ancient cities, with their unique architectural styles and historical significance, offer a glimpse into remarkable eras.
Moreover, every city worldwide has a compelling narrative to share and ancient cities.
in particular, boast rich cultural legacies, captivating architecture, and profound imprints of human civilization.
What is more, many of them have endured geographical catastrophes and human invasions, proving their resilience over time.
In this article, we delve into the exploration of 5 such oldest cities around the world.
5. Damascus In Syria
Damascus, one of the oldest Middle Eastern cities, founded in the 3rd millennium B.C., possesses archaeological evidence of habitation dating back to 8,000-10,000 B.C.
Various cultures, including Roman and Greek urban planning, have shaped the city’s unique character, which is situated in modern-day Syria.
The Umayyad Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque, reflects Islam’s profound influence.
Builders constructed it between A.D. 705 and 715, establishing it as one of the world’s largest and oldest mosques.
4. Athens In Greece
Athens, Greece’s ancient capital, boasts a history dating 7,000 years to 5,000 B.C.
As the birthplace of democracy, Athens attracts history enthusiasts with its legacies from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.
Tourists continue to favor Athens, despite Greece’s recent economic struggles, to immerse themselves in its history, art, cuisine, and people.
3. Sidon In Lebanon
Sidon, Lebanon, a city with a long, rich history, dates back to around 4,000 B.C. or possibly even earlier, around 6,000 B.C.
Historical figures such as Jesus, St. Paul, and Alexander the Great are believed to have visited (the latter capturing the city).
Situated south of Beirut, this Phoenician city has grown to become one of Lebanon’s largest cities and is home to Sayhad, a bustling port.
Much of Sidon’s history remains concealed beneath modern buildings, posing challenges for archaeologists.
Nevertheless, there are remarkable sites to explore, including the Sidon Sea Castle.
2. Rayy In Iran
Rayy, situated in the Greater Tehran metropolitan area in Iran, holds a unique place in history.
With evidence of habitation dating back to 6,000 B.C.,
it is among the world’s oldest cities. Mentioned as a sacred site in the ancient Zoroastrian scriptures, the Avesta, Rayy has a rich historical significance.
In A.D. 641, the city fell to Arab capture, and in 1220, it faced near-destruction by the Mongols.
Furthermore, the city preserves historical landmarks, notably the 12th-century Tughrul Tower and Cheshmeh Ali Hill, a 7,000-year-old excavation site.
1. Jericho In Palestine
With a population of 20,000 people, Jericho, situated in Palestine, is reputed to be the world’s oldest city.
Indeed, some of the earliest archaeological evidence from the area dates back 11,000 years.
Having endured multiple cycles of destruction and rebuilding, Jericho continues to stand today, providing visitors with various historical and religious sites to explore.
These include the Mount of Temptation, where Jesus faced temptation by the devil, and Nabi Musa, the area believed to house the tomb of Moses.
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