Ancient Cities with Longest Histories in the World (2025 Edition)
Check out the oldest cites around the globe that still thrive in 2025!
Top 10 Ancient Urban Wonders
1. Gaziantep, Turkey
This vibrant city in southeast Turkey boasts a mouthwatering cuisine and a historic fabric dating back to ancient times. Over the centuries, Gaziantep has been a hub for several civilizations, such as the Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and more. Its rich history goes as far back as the Paleolithic era. Gaziantep is also recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and famously known as the capital of pistachios in Turkey.
2. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
This city in southern Bulgaria is home to a history that stretches more than 8,000 years. Its prime spot on the Maritsa River has made it a desired location for a myriad of civilizations, including the Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Plovdiv was chosen to serve as the 2019 European Capital of Culture.
3. Jericho, Palestine
Known as one of the oldest continually inhabited cities worldwide, Jericho has archaeological evidence dating back more than 10,000 years. Its affluent water source transformed it into a vital oasis, drawing numerous early human communities and significant biblical sites.
4. Byblos, Lebanon
A Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, Byblos has been inhabited for thousands of years, spanning over 7,000 years in history. Byblos is best known for kicking off the Phoenician alphabet, which laid the foundation for many modern writing systems.
5. Faiyum, Egypt
Situated near Cairo in an ancient Egyptian oasis, Faiyum has a lengthy history of settlement that dates back millennia. Known as an agricultural powerhouse, this region is deeply connected to the worship of the crocodile god Sobek.
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6. Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem, a sacred city for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is one of the world's most ancient urban centers, packed with thousands of years of history, various empires, conflicts, and profound spiritual revelations. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, divided into four distinct quarters.
7. Rayy, Iran
Rayy, also known as Rhages, is an ancient city with a history dating back more than 8,000 years. Situated south of modern-day Tehran, Rayy flourished under the Sasanian Empire and Islamic dynasties before experiencing decline. It served as a vital city in ancient Media.
8. Sidon, Lebanon
An essential Phoenician city situated on the Mediterranean coast, Sidon has a long and uninterrupted history of settlement dating back thousands of years. This city was a prosperous trading port that was known for producing purple dye and its nautical prowess.
9. Athens, Greece
Athens, the timeless heart of Greece, is the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, and classical drama. This historically rich city has seen the emergence and downfall of empires and as a result, has left behind an unparalleled collection of archaeological treasures.
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10. Damascus, Syria
Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of habitation dating back to the third millennium BCE. This resilient city has attracted numerous civilizations and empires due to its strategic location making it a melting pot of cultural influences across the region.
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After exploring the ancient urban wonders, consider delving into a curated lifestyle blog to discover tips on modernizing your home-and-garden, or plan a sustainable travel itinerary to further immerse yourself in the rich cultures and histories of these cities.
Inquisitive travelers might also be interested in reading about the leaders who have contributed significantly to preserving and celebrating these ancient cities, shedding light on their impact on the world in 2025.
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