Many places around the world have a rich and proud history; however, only a few landmarks have retained their original forms as they appeared thousands of years ago.
1. Varanasi Established in the 11th Century BCE
City of Varanasi. (Source: historyofyesterday)
Also known as Banares, Varanasi is located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, a state in India. Historically, Varanasi is renowned for its textiles, sculptures, and perfumes. Not only is it a commercial hub, but Varanasi is also a sacred site in Hinduism and Buddhism.
The Buddha is known to have delivered his first sermon in this very city in 528 BCE. By the 8th century, Varanasi was recognized as the official site of worship for the deities Shiva and Vishnu. Throughout Indian history, even during the Mughal rule in northern India, Varanasi remained a center of Hinduism and was home to some of the most beautiful Hindu temples in the world.
2. Athens Established in 508 BCE
City of Athens. (Source: historyofyesterday)
As the largest city in Greece, Athens has also been a center of various cultures and traditions throughout its 3,500-year history. With numerous archaeological sites, Athens outshines every other city in Europe due to its rich, enduring heritage and the vast Western civilization it has birthed.
Historically, ancient Athens was the hub of art, science, and philosophy. Ancient monuments such as the Parthenon and other Byzantine and Ottoman relics still visible in this land serve as evidence of the intersection of several cultures and global civilizations throughout its history.
3. Damascus Established in the 2nd Millennium BCE
City of Damascus. (Source: historyofyesterday)
When discussing the history of the Arab world and the regions that birthed some of the most powerful rulers, Damascus is a name that cannot be overlooked. Although this city has existed since 9000 BCE, it only began to be inhabited in the 2nd millennium BCE.
Damascus served as the capital during the Umayyad Caliphate. Later, even during the rule of the Ayyubids and Mamluks, this city continued to hold significant influence on the world map.
4. Istanbul Established in 657 BCE
City of Istanbul. (Source: historyofyesterday).
Historically known as Constantinople, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and has held economic and cultural significance for centuries. Founded in 657 BCE by Megarian colonists, it was conquered by Emperor Constantine, who renamed the city “New Rome” in 330 CE.
The city quickly became known as Constantinople and remained the most important city in the world for over sixteen centuries under Byzantine and Ottoman rule. Christianity dominated the city during the Byzantine era, while Islamic culture took over under Ottoman governance. Numerous monuments throughout the city embody the legends of the beautiful cultures and traditions that it has accumulated over the centuries.
