Any city has its own creation history, but not every one of them can boast of centuries of existence. Some of the settlements that exist now are formed a long time ago. The age of many cities is established with the help of archaeological and historical researchers, the conclusions of which indicate an approximate time of appearance. Based on these data, the rating is compiled: is the oldest city in the world , where the most ancient urban settlements of our planet are considered.
10
Jerusalem
This city is known to many people 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 traces of man in the territory of Jerusalem appeared already in 2800 BC.e., so it can rightfully be considered one of the oldest cities in the world.
During its history, Jerusalem experienced multiple wars, twice tried to completely destroy it, but it still pleases us with its greatness and beauty and gladly meets pilgrims from all over the world. The centuries-old traditions of different peoples in Jerusalem are strikingly mixed, which is expressed in historical monuments, culture of local residents and in unique architecture.
9
Beirut
9th position in the ranking of the oldest cities in the world is Beirut. According to various sources, the city appeared for 3000-5000 years BC.e. During its existence, Beirut was repeatedly destroyed, but it was always possible to restore it.
The territory of the Lebanese capital has been repeatedly excavated, during which various artifacts belonging to the Phoenician, Ottoman, Roman and many other ethnic communities were found. According to the research, written references to Beirut date back to the 14th century BC.e. Now the city is a tourist center of Lebanon. Its population is 361,000 people.
8
Gaziantep
Gaziantep is one of the oldest cities in Turkey and all over the world. It is located near the border of Syria. His settlement occurred in 3650 BC.e. Until 1921 the city had a different name - Antep, after it was added the title of "gazi", which in translation means brave. In ancient times, crusades passed through the city, and in 1183, during the time of the Ottoman Empire, mosques and inns were built in Gaziantep, later it became a shopping center.
The modern city is inhabited by Turks, Arabs and Kurds, their approximate population is 850,000 people. Every year Gaziantep is visited by crowds of tourists from different countries. There is something to see: the ruins of ancient cities, museums, bridges and other unique attractions.
7
Plovdiv
The first settlements in the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv appeared 4000 years BC.e. According to some sources, it is the oldest city in Europe, therefore for it 7 line in a rating of old cities of the world is given. In 342 BC.e. Plovdiv was called in a different way - Audris. This name can be seen on old 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 Põldin. For its subsequent history, the city several times fell under the power of Byzantines and returned again to the Bulgarians. In 1364, the Ottomans conquered Plovdiv. The modern city is famous for its large number of historical monuments and other sights known far beyond Bulgaria.
6
Fayum( El-Fayoum)
This Egyptian city appeared about 4000 years BC.e. It is located in the territory of another ancient city of Crocodilopolis, south-west of Cairo. The fact that he is one of the oldest cities in the world is witnessed by excavations, which confirm the visit of the city by the pharaohs of the 12th dynasty. At that time the city was called Shadet, which means the sea.
Currently, El Fayyum is flooded with numerous markets, bazaars and mosques. The city has an unusual infrastructure with various sights. It produces rose oil, cultivates exotic fruits and cereals.
5
Sidon
The oldest city in Lebanon began its existence 4000 years BC.e. It is located 40 km from the capital. According to historical data, it is known that he was visited by Jesus and the Apostle Paul. In the time of the Phoenicians, he was the largest trading center of the Mediterranean. Until now, the sea port, built in the Phoenician era, has been preserved.
Sidon was repeatedly included in the composition of various states and empires. He was considered one of the most impregnable cities. Now here live about 200000 people.
4
Susi
The very first settlements in Suze appeared in 4200 BC.e., the city is mentioned in the ancient Sumerian annals, as well as in the Old Testament and other scriptures. The city had the status of the capital of the Elamite Empire, until it was captured by the Assyrians. In 668, there was a battle, during which the city was plundered and burnt. Ten years later the Elam Empire disappeared.
One of the most ancient cities of Susa many times suffered bloody slaughter 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 Beeble, not known as Jebeyl. This Lebanese city was founded in 4-5 millennium BC.e. It was built by the Phoenicians and gave it the name of Gebal. On its territory are many Phoenician shrines, as well as the Church of Ion the Precursor. Biblical city began to call the ancient Greeks, who visited the city and bought here papyrus. In ancient times, the Library was the largest port.
Biblical writings have not been translated, they still remain a mystery that the ancient city left behind. They do not have a similarity not with one of the writing systems of that time.
2
Damascus
The second place is occupied by the ancient city of Damascus. The first mention of it dates back to 15 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 has repeatedly become part of various states and empires. It is known that Damascus visited the apostle Paul, then the first Christians appeared here.
Currently, Damascus is the cultural capital and the second largest Syrian city, with more than 1.5 million people living here.
1
Jericho
The top of the pedestal rightfully belongs to the oldest city in the world - Jericho. Historians have found on its territory the remains of ancient settlements, which settled here as early as 9 millennium BC.e. The city is located on the banks of the sacred river Jordan, it is known to many according to biblical writings.
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. Currently, its population is more than 20,000 people.