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Top 20 Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities Around the Globe
1. Jericho, Palestinian Territories — 11,000+ Years
Jericho stands out as the oldest known inhabited city in the world. Archaeologists estimate that Jericho has been continuously occupied for over 11,000 years, making it a fascinating site in the history of human civilization. Its strategic location near the Jordan River has historically provided abundant resources, supporting dense settlements for millennia. Today, Jericho continues to be a unique blend of ancient history and modern life, attracting scholars and tourists alike who are eager to explore its age-old past.
2. Byblos, Lebanon — Over 7,000 Years
Byblos is often considered one of the oldest cities in Lebanon and the world. Its history dates back more than 7,000 years, with evidence of early Phoenician settlements that flourished through trade and maritime prowess. The city’s archaeological sites reveal layers of history from the Neolithic period onward, with ruins that tell stories of ancient civilizations that once thrived along the Mediterranean coast.
3. Argos, Greece — 7,000+ Years
Argos, situated in southeastern Greece, boasts a history dating back approximately 7,000 years. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Greece, Argos played a key role in ancient Greek culture and mythology. Its archaeological remains, including ancient fortifications and temples, highlight its long-standing significance in the region.
4. Damascus, Syria — Around 6,300 Years
Often cited as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Damascus has been a vital hub in the Middle East for over 6,300 years. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of various civilizations, including the Nabataeans, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Despite modern challenges, Damascus remains a city with deep historical roots and imperial architectures that tell stories of its storied past.
5. Aleppo, Syria — 6,300+ Years
Close in age to Damascus, Aleppo has maintained its place as one of Syria’s most historic cities for over 6,300 years. Known historically for its vibrant markets and impressive citadel, Aleppo continues to be a center of commerce and culture, blending ancient traditions with contemporary life.
6. Susa, Iran — 6,200 Years
Susa is one of the oldest cities in Iran, reaching back over 6,200 years. Its significance as an ancient Elamite and Persian city helped shape the history of Persia and the broader Middle East. Excavations have uncovered fascinating artifacts that reveal the city’s rich history as a political and religious center.
7. Plovdiv, Bulgaria — 6,000+ Years
This Bulgarian city boasts a history of more than 6,000 years, making it one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. It flourished under various civilizations, including Thracians, Romans, and Byzantines. Today, Plovdiv’s well-preserved old town and archaeological sites attract visitors eager to explore its layered history.
8. Sidon, Lebanon — 6,000+ Years
Sidon has been a key coastal hub in Lebanon for millennia. Its history as a Phoenician city associated with maritime trade and craftsmanship continues to influence its modern identity. Ruins from different eras showcase its enduring importance through centuries of civilization.
9. Faiyum, Egypt — 6,000 Years
Faiyum, situated near Lake Moeris, is an ancient Egyptian city that dates back approximately 6,000 years. Known for its fertile lands and complex irrigation systems, Faiyum was a vital agricultural center in ancient Egypt, and its archaeological sites reflect the city’s rich history.
10. Gaziantep, Turkey — Around 5,650 Years
This southeastern Turkish city has roots stretching back over 5,650 years. Its strategic location along trade routes integrated it into the broader Anatolian and Mesopotamian regions throughout history. Modern Gaziantep continues to celebrate its ancient legacy, especially through its famous cuisine.
11. Beirut, Lebanon — 5,000+ Years
As Lebanon’s capital, Beirut’s history spans over 5,000 years. Its resilient multicultural identity has emerged from its long-standing status as a crossroads for various civilizations, from Phoenicians to modern times. Today, Beirut balances modern developments with its ancient roots.
12. Jerusalem, Israel/Palestine — About 4,800 Years
Jerusalem’s history is one of the most profound, stretching back nearly five millennia. Its significance in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, alongside its archaeological riches, makes it a city of global importance and deep historical layers.
13. Tyre, Lebanon — Approx. 4,750 Years
Tyre, an ancient Phoenician city, played a vital role in maritime trade and cultural exchanges. Its archaeological remains, including well-preserved ruins, testify to its long-standing importance on the Levantine coast.
14. Erbil, Iraq — 4,300 Years
Known for its ancient fortress, Erbil has been inhabited for over four millennia. Its strategic location in northern Iraq has made it a vital hub for regional trade, culture, and governance throughout history.
15. Kirkuk, Iraq — 4,200+ Years
Kirkuk’s history as a trading and administrative center spans more than four thousand years. Its rich archaeological sites offer insights into ancient Mesopotamian civilizations, making it an important city in Iraq’s historical landscape.
16. Balkh, Afghanistan — 3,500+ Years
Balkh, also known as the “Mother of Cities,” has a history stretching back over 3,500 years. As a key city along the Silk Road, it was a vital hub for commerce, religion, and culture, especially during the Buddhist and Islamic eras.
17. Athens, Greece — 3,400+ Years
While the city gained prominence in Classical Greece, Athens itself has a history that dates back more than 3,400 years. Its archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, are symbols of Western civilization’s origins.
18. Thebes, Greece — Approximately 3,400 Years
Another ancient Greek city, Thebes, has occupied the historical landscape for roughly 3,400 years. It was a powerful city-state rivaling Athens and Sparta in the ancient world.
19. Larnaca, Cyprus — Around 3,400 Years
Larnaca’s history extends back approximately 3,400 years, with evidence of ancient settlements and cultural influences from Greeks, Byzantines, and others. It remains a lively coastal city with a rich archaeological heritage.
20. Cádiz, Spain — Around 3,100 Years
Cádiz is among Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with roots over three millennia deep. Its significance as a Phoenician colony has left a lasting legacy, with archaeological finds that highlight its ancient maritime prominence.
Note: These age estimates are based on archaeological evidence and historical research. The rankings may vary depending on differing sources or new discoveries in the field of archaeology.
Sources: Archaeological records, historical research, and city records from 2025.
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