In a world where change is constant and nations rise and fall, there are a handful of countries that have stood the test of time. These are the places where civilizations have flourished for millennia, leaving behind a rich tapestry of history and culture. Let’s delve into the 10 oldest countries in the world as of 2024, each with a legacy that spans centuries.
1. Egypt
Age: Approximately 3100 BCE
Egypt, with its iconic pyramids, ancient temples, and the majestic Nile River, stands as a living testament to one of the world’s earliest civilizations. The Great Pyramid of Giza, built during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu, remains one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
2. China
Age: Approximately 2070 BCE
China’s history is a vast canvas of dynasties, inventions, and philosophical traditions. The Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, and the Forbidden City are just a few of the enduring symbols of this ancient civilization.
3. Iran
Age: Approximately 550 BCE
Persia, known today as Iran, boasts a history that dates back to the days of the Achaemenid Empire. The ruins of Persepolis, once the ceremonial capital of the empire, offer a glimpse into this ancient world.
4. Greece
Age: Approximately 800 BCE
Considered the birthplace of Western civilization, Greece’s contributions to art, philosophy, and governance are immeasurable. From the Acropolis in Athens to the Oracle at Delphi, the remnants of its ancient glory continue to inspire.
5. Japan
Age: Approximately 660 BCE
Japan’s history is a blend of tradition and innovation, with a cultural heritage that stretches back over two millennia. From the serene temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, the country’s past and present are intertwined.
6. India
Age: Approximately 1500 BCE
The cradle of one of the oldest civilizations in the world, India’s history is as diverse as its landscapes. The ancient cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, the spiritual hub of Varanasi, and the majestic forts of Rajasthan all speak to its enduring legacy.
7. Iraq
Age: Approximately 3000 BCE
Mesopotamia, the land between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, was home to some of the earliest known civilizations. Iraq’s history encompasses the ancient civilizations of Sumer, Babylon, and Assyria, leaving behind ruins that tell tales of grandeur and conquest.
8. Italy
Age: Approximately 753 BCE
Italy, with its rich tapestry of art, architecture, and culture, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. From the Colosseum in Rome to the art-filled streets of Florence, the country’s history is alive in its every corner.
9. Turkey
Age: Approximately 1300 BCE
Ankara, Istanbul, and the ruins of Troy are just a few of the sites that speak to Turkey’s ancient past. The country’s position at the crossroads of civilizations has left it with a diverse and storied history.
10. Portugal
Age: Approximately 1139 CE
While not as ancient as some of the other countries on this list, Portugal’s history is nonetheless rich and storied. From the Age of Discoveries to the Moorish influences in its architecture, Portugal’s past is alive in its cities and landscapes.
These 10 countries serve as reminders of the incredible longevity of human civilization, with each one offering a unique glimpse into the past. Whether exploring the pyramids of Egypt, the temples of Greece, or the castles of Portugal, these ancient lands continue to inspire wonder and awe in all who visit them.
