Aug 24, 2024
By: Prerna Tyagi
Often touted as the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Damascus holds a history that stretches back over 11,000 years. The city’s ancient streets have witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the Arameans to the Ottomans, each leaving its mark on the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Mark Twain once said, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Situated along the sacred Ganges river, it has been a centre of learning, spirituality and pilgrimage for millennia.
Often called the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is where democracy, philosophy, and art flourished. Home to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon, the city has been at the heart of Greek culture for over 3,000 years.
The City of Saints, Multan, is one of the oldest cities in South Asia, with a history that stretches back a few millennia. It is known for its ancient shrines, vibrant bazaars, and the Multan Sun Temple, which once stood as a symbol of spiritual significance in the region.
Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest cities and boasts a history of over 6,000 years. Its well-preserved Roman theatre and cobblestone streets reflect its long-standing cultural and historical significance.
Aleppo, another ancient Syrian city, has been inhabited for over 8,000 years. Despite recent turmoil, it remains a symbol of resilience, with its historic citadel and bustling souks.
The starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an has been the capital of several of China’s greatest dynasties. With a history of over 3,000 years, it’s home to the famed Terracotta Army and ancient city walls.
Once known as Thebes, Luxor is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history. The Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Luxor Temple are just a few of the marvels that make this city an open-air museum.
Jericho’s history dates back over 11,000 years. Located near the Jordan River, its ancient ruins, including the famous Tell es-Sultan, provide a glimpse into early human civilization.
Cholula is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, with a history that spans over 2,500 years. It’s most famous for the Great Pyramid of Cholula which is now topped by a Catholic church.