Determining the absolute oldest city in the world is complex, as there isn't one straightforward answer that all historians and archaeologists agree upon. The definition of "city" and "continuously inhabited" can vary. However, several strong contenders are frequently cited, each with compelling evidence of ancient origins and uninterrupted settlement.
The Enduring Question of the Oldest City
The quest to identify the world's oldest continuously inhabited city leads to a few prominent candidates, primarily due to their deep historical roots and evidence of unbroken settlement.
Jericho: A Leading Contender
Many experts and historical accounts point to Jericho in the Middle East as potentially the oldest city in the world. Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in Jericho dates back approximately 11,000 years (around 9000 BCE). Its strategic location near a permanent spring has ensured continuous settlement throughout millennia, making it a powerful candidate for the title of the longest-inhabited urban center.
Athens: A Venerable European Metropolis
Another strong contender for the title of the world's oldest continuously inhabited city is Athens, the capital of Greece. This ancient European city has been continuously inhabited for about 5,000 years. Its rich history, marked by the birth of democracy, philosophy, and Western civilization, stands as a testament to its enduring human presence. While perhaps not as ancient in its earliest foundations as Jericho, Athens boasts an unbroken chain of human settlement for a remarkable period.
Understanding "Oldest City" Criteria
The criteria for defining the "oldest city" often involve several factors:
- Continuous Habitation: The settlement must have been occupied by a significant population without substantial breaks in its history.
- Urban Characteristics: Evidence of organized urban planning, defensive structures, public spaces, and a substantial population distinct from a village.
- Archaeological Evidence: The presence of ancient layers of settlement confirmed by extensive archaeological excavations and dating methods.
Comparison of Top Contenders
Here's a brief comparison of these prominent contenders:
| City | Region | Estimated Continuous Habitation | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jericho | Middle East | ~11,000 years (9000 BCE) | Frequently cited as the oldest due to very early settlement dates and continuous occupancy. |
| Athens | Europe (Greece) | ~5,000 years | A long-standing European capital, significant for its ancient civilization and continuous urban life. |
Note: The exact founding dates for these ancient settlements are estimates based on extensive archaeological research and are subject to ongoing discovery and interpretation.
