The 10 Oldest Cities In The World

From ancient tombs to market towns, these are the cities that have stood the test of time. Here’s 10 of the oldest cities in the world, that have been continuously inhabited.

Visiting these destinations is almost like stepping back in time, as you get a sense of rich history. Not all of the cities are popular tourist spots – some are currently dangerous – but they each have their own charm.

The oldest cities in the world

1. Damascus, Syria

How old is the city? Damascus was inhabited as early as 8,000 to 10,000 BC.

2. Jericho, West Bank

How old is the city? Fortifications found in Jericho dating back to 6800 B.C. confirm it’s the earliest known walled city.

3. Aleppo, Syria

How old is the city? Evidence of human habitation at Aleppo dates back about 8,000 years.

4. Athens, Greece

How old is the city? Athens has been continuously inhabited for at least 7,000 years.

5. Argos, Greece

How old is the city? Inhabited for the last 7,000 years, Argos is close with Athens to be the oldest city in Europe.

6. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

How old is the city? Evidence of habitation in Plovdiv dates back 6,000 years.

7. Faiyum, Egypt

How old is the city? Fayoum was home to agri communities almost 6,000 years ago, steadily increasing since drought about 4,000 years ago.

8. Byblos, Lebanon

How old is the city? Byblos has been a continuously inhabited city for about 5,000 years.

9. Sidon, Lebanon

How old is the city? One of the most important Phoenican cities, Byblos has been an inhabited city for about 5,000 years.

10. Rayy, Iran

How old is the city? Although there is evidence of habitation further back, it’s more likley that Rayy has been a city for 5,000 or 6,000 years.