Top 10 oldest cities in the world

Any city has its own history of creation, but not every one of them can boast of a centuries-old existence. Some of the settlements that exist today were formed a very long time ago. The age of many cities has been established with the help of archaeological and historical researchers, according to the conclusions of which the approximate time of appearance is indicated. Based on these data, the rating was compiled: oldest cities in the world, where the most ancient urban settlements of our planet are considered.

10 Jerusalem

This city is known to many residents of all countries, as it contains the holy places of Jews, Christians and Muslims. It is also called the city of peace and the city of three religions. The first human traces on the territory of Jerusalem appeared already in 2800 BC. e., so it can rightfully be considered one of the oldest cities in the world.

Throughout its history, Jerusalem has survived multiple wars, twice they tried to completely destroy it, but to this day it pleases us with its grandeur and beauty and gladly welcomes pilgrims from all over the world. In Jerusalem, centuries-old traditions of different peoples are amazingly mixed, which is expressed in historical monuments, the culture of local residents and in unique architecture.

9. Beirut

Beirut occupies the 9th position in the ranking of the oldest cities in the world. According to various sources, the city appeared in 3000-5000 BC. e. During its existence, Beirut was repeatedly destroyed, but it was always possible to restore it.

Excavations have been repeatedly carried out on the territory of the Lebanese capital, during which various artifacts belonging to the Phoenician, Ottoman, Roman and many other ethnic communities were found. According to research, written references to Beirut date back to the 14th century BC. e. Now the city is the tourist center of Lebanon. Its population is 361000 people.

8. Gaziantep

Gaziantep is one of the oldest cities in Turkey and around the world. It is located close to the Syrian border. Its settlement took place in 3650 BC. e. Until 1921, the city had a different name – Antep, after which the title “gazi” was added to it, which means brave in translation. In ancient times, crusades passed through the city, and in 1183, during the time of the Ottoman Empire, mosques and inns began to be built in Gaziantep, and later it became a trading center.

The modern city is inhabited by Turks, Arabs and Kurds, their approximate number is 850 people. Every year, Gaziantep is visited by crowds of tourists from different countries. There is something to see here: the ruins of ancient cities, museums, bridges and other unique sights.

7. Plovdiv

The first settlements in the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv appeared in 4000 BC. e. According to some reports, it is the oldest city in Europe, so it is given the 7th line in the ranking of the oldest cities in the world. In 342 BC. e. Plovdiv was called differently – Odris. This name can be seen on ancient bronze coins.

In the 6th century, the city was under the control of the Slavic tribes, later it became part of the Bulgarian kingdom and was renamed Pyldin. During its subsequent history, the city several times fell under the rule of the Byzantines and returned again to the Bulgarians. In 1364 Plovdiv was captured by the Ottomans. The modern city is famous for a large number of historical architectural monuments and other sights known far beyond the borders of Bulgaria.

6. Fayoum (El Fayoum)

This Egyptian city appeared around 4000 BC. e. It is located on the territory of another ancient city of Crocodilopolis, southwest of Cairo. The fact that it is one of the oldest cities in the world is evidenced by excavations that confirm the visit of the city by the pharaohs of the 12th dynasty. In those days, the city was called Shedet, which means sea.

At present, El Fayoum is flooded with numerous markets, bazaars and mosques. The city has an unusual infrastructure with various attractions. Here they produce rose oil, grow exotic fruits and cereals.

5. Sidon

The oldest city in Lebanon began its existence in 4000 BC. e. It is located 40 km from the capital. According to historical data, it is known that Jesus and the Apostle Paul visited him. During the time of the Phoenicians, it was the largest trading center in the Mediterranean. Until now, a seaport built in the Phoenician era has been preserved.

Sidon has repeatedly been part of various states and empires. It was considered one of the most impregnable cities. Now about 200000 people live here.

4. Susa

The very first settlements in Susa appeared in 4200 BC. e., the city is mentioned in ancient Sumerian chronicles, as well as in the Old Testament and other sacred writings. The city had the status of the capital of the Elamite Empire until it was captured by the Assyrians. In 668, a battle took place during which the city was sacked and burned. Ten years later, the Elamite Empire disappeared.

One of the most ancient cities of Susa suffered many bloody battles and destruction, but each time it was rebuilt. Currently, the city of Susa is called Shush, its population is about 65 thousand people, mostly Muslims and Jews.

3. Byblos

The three oldest cities in the world include Byblos, not known as Jbeil. This Lebanese city was founded in 4-5 millennium BC. e. It was built by the Phoenicians and named Gebal. On its territory there are many Phoenician shrines, as well as the church of John the Baptist. Byblios, the city began to be called by the ancient Greeks, who visited the city and purchased papyrus here. In ancient times Byblios was the largest port.

The biblical writings have never been translated; they still remain a mystery left by the ancient city. They have no resemblance to any of the writing systems of that time.

2. Damascus

The second position is occupied by the ancient city of Damascus. The first mention of it dates back to the 15th century BC. e. During this period of time, the Egyptian pharaohs ruled here. Later, the city was the center of the Damascus kingdom. For the rest of its existence, Damascus repeatedly became part of different states and empires. It is known that the Apostle Paul visited Damascus, at the same time the first Christians appeared here.

Currently, Damascus is the cultural capital and the second largest Syrian city, with more than 1 million people living here.

1. Jericho

The top of the pedestal rightfully belongs to the oldest city in the world – Jericho. Historians have discovered on its territory the remains of ancient settlements that settled here as far back as 9 millennia BC. e. The city is located on the banks of the sacred Jordan River. It is known to many from the biblical scriptures.

Modern Jericho is a real living museum of ancient monuments. Here you can see the ruins left from the palace of King Herod, visit the source of the holy prophet Elisha and visit various Orthodox shrines. At present, its population is more than 20000 people.