Civilization has existed for thousands of years, and from a very early period of time, people had begun to colonize and create cities of their own. Previously, tribes used to settle in different areas in villages, and as civilization progressed, they began to understand new facets of the economy and began to construct larger buildings. From small huts to mud and brick houses to full-fledged brick and mortar houses, mankind and civilization has undergone a number of different developmental processes to stand where it does today. As a tribute, here are the ten oldest cities in the world.
Number one on the list is Gaziantep, Turkey. You might not have heard of it, but this small city was previously known as Antep. One of the oldest relics in the world today, the Antep Fortress is still present, and a mere visit reminds you of its old age. Records show that Gaziantep was created as far back as 3650 B.C, making it the oldest in the world.
One of the most historic cities in the world, Jerusalem was hotly contested in the Middle Ages and the city was destroyed completely twice in its history. A large number of different wars have been fought in and around Jerusalem, and there are a number of different places to visit here. For instance, the Temple of Solomon and the Tomb of King David are just two of the many sacred sights to view.
3. Kirkuk, Iraq
Iraq has a very old history itself, and the city of Kirkuk ranks second on our list. This used to the capital of the Kingdom of Assyria back then. Records have shown that the city existed as far back as 3,000 B.C, making it the third oldest city on our list.
One of the most modern cities in the world today is also one of the oldest. Records have shown that civilization existed in Zurich as far back as 3,000 B.C. Previously, it was known as Turicum, then was later renamed to Ziurichi. For the last thousand years however, it's been known as Zurich.
Turkey is by far one of the most historic locations in the world, and Konya comes fifth on our list. Mentions of the city have been made in the history of the Greco- Romans, and even though the Greek texts have yet to be proven, science and carbon dating have shown that the city is older than all of the oldest cities of Egypt.
6. Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids of Egypt are located in Giza, which speaks volumes about the age of the city.
7. Xi'an, China
Chinese culture has existed for eans, and Xi'an is the proof. Known as one of the Great Ancient Capitals of China, Xi'an was previously known as Chang'an. Remember the Terracotta Army that was shown in the Mummy 3 movie? This is the place where you can actually see it in person.
8. Asyut, Egypt
Over 4000 years old, Asyut, Egypt has been the sight of several battles. The city fell in to ruins after these battles, and lay uninhabited for quite a while after civilization began residing here again. Now, it's a modern, thriving city.
9. Luxor, Egypt
Egypt might be famous for the Pyramids in Giza, but apart from the pharaohs, there's a lot more to see here. Records show that Luxor is as old as 2,160 BC, making it the 9th on our list.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is older than Rome, Paris and even London. Monuments such as the Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower are hundreds of years old, and having been founded back in 2000 B.C or so, it is number 10 on our list.
