Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE and quickly became one of the most important cities in the ancient world. Known for its great library and lighthouse, it was a center of learning and culture.
Today, Alexandria still retains much of its ancient character.
Rome, Italy
Rome is one of the most famous ancient cities in the world. It has been continuously inhabited for over 2,700 years. As the capital of the Roman Empire, Rome played a key role in shaping Western civilization.
Its ancient ruins, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, remain testament to its glorious past.
London, England
London has been inhabited for over 2,000 years.
Originally founded by the Romans as Londinium around 43 AD, it quickly grew into a vital trade and cultural hub. Today, London is a global city, but its historic landmarks, such as the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, showcase its ancient roots.
Damascus, Syria
Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Its history dates back to around 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. Damascus has been a significant cultural, commercial, and religious center for many civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs.
Athens, Greece
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, has been inhabited for over 3,400 years.
Known for its ancient ruins and rich cultural history, Athens was the heart of democracy and philosophy. The Acropolis, with its iconic Parthenon temple, stands as a symbol of the city’s lasting influence on the world.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has a history that dates back to at least 1,200 BCE.
The city was founded by the Phoenicians and later influenced by the Romans, Moors, and Christians. The historic district of Alfama is one of the oldest parts of the city, offering a glimpse of its long history.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, is one of the most historically significant cities in the world. It has been inhabited for over 2,500 years. The city has served as the capital of three major empires:
the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Istanbul is famous for its historic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Luxur, Egypt
Luxor, once known as Thebes, is one of the oldest cities in Egypt.
It has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. The city is famous for its ancient temples, tombs, and monuments, such as the Valley of the Kings, which houses the tomb of Tutankhamun. Luxor continues to be a major archaeological site.
Byblos, Lebanon
Byblos is another ancient city that dates back to around 5,000 BCE.
This coastal city was an important center of trade and culture in ancient Phoenicia. Byblos is also considered the birthplace of the alphabet, which was developed by the Phoenicians. Its ancient ruins, including temples and forts, tell a story of a thriving civilization.
Jericho, Palestine
Jericho is often regarded as the oldest city in the world. Located near the Jordan River, Jericho has been continuously inhabited for over 10,000 years.
Archaeological evidence suggests that Jericho’s first settlements date back to around 9,000 BCE. The city’s walls, dating back to the Bronze Age, are some of the oldest structures ever discovered.
