7 August 2023
Embark on a journey through the oldest countries in the world. Discover ancient civilisations, historical places, and unique cultures. Plan your 2024 travel.
Determining the top ten oldest countries in the world can be a complex task.
When does a region truly become a country? Historical accounts can differ.
But let’s not get lost in the semantics.
We’re here to inspire history buffs to travel to the oldest countries in the world, not to debate historical accuracy.
So, buckle up, fellow travellers, as we journey through time to explore ten countries steeped in ancient history that you should visit in 2024.
Oldest Countries in the World: Historical Places to Visit in 2024
1. Egypt (3150 BC): The birthplace of Ancient Egypt following the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt.
2. India (3300 BC): The cradle of the Indus Valley Civilization, with the Maurya Empire marking the beginning of organized governance.
3. Iran (Persia) (2800 BC): The origin of the Elamite Kingdom, later transitioning into the Persian Empire.
4. China (2100 BC): The inception of the Xia Dynasty, marking the start of Chinese civilization.
5. Armenia (860 BC): The establishment of the Kingdom of Urartu, the predecessor of the Armenian nation.
6. Greece (800 BC): The emergence of independent city-states, the precursors of Greek civilization.
7. Sudan (Nubia/Kush) (1070 BC): The rise of the Kingdom of Kush, an ancient civilization in what is now Sudan.
8. Ethiopia (100 AD): The ascendance of the Aksumite Empire, marking the country’s historical beginning.
9. Japan (4th century AD): The formation of the first historically verified state.
10. Israel (1200-600 BC to 1948 AD): The existence of Ancient Israel and Judah during the Iron Age, but modern Israel was founded in 1948.
1. Egypt
Egypt, one of the oldest countries in the world, is a treasure trove of ancient wonders.
It’s home to the last standing wonder of the ancient world – the Pyramids of Giza. The Nile, the world’s longest river, has been Egypt’s lifeline, fostering one of history’s most influential civilizations.
Egypt also boasts many world’s firsts, including one of the earliest forms of writing – hieroglyphics.
Here are the top five historical places in Egypt:
1. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx: Marvel at these iconic structures that showcase ancient Egyptians’ architectural genius.
2. Luxor’s Temples and Tombs: Explore the open-air museum of Luxor, filled with temples and tombs, including the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.
3. Nile Cruise: Experience a multi-day cruise on the Nile, witnessing the temples that line the river banks, and enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
4. Aswan: Relax in Aswan, with its Nile curves and orange dunes. Don’t miss the Philae Temple and the sunset felucca ride.
5. Abu Simbel: Visit the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, adorned with colossal statues of Ramses II.
Egypt is more than a land of pyramids; it’s a gateway to ancient times. So, grab your Egypt vacation deal and prepare to be mesmerized by the echoes of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
2. India
India, one of the oldest countries in the world, is a land where history whispers from every corner.
Imagine walking in the footsteps of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s oldest, or standing in the grandeur of the Maurya Empire, which marked the beginning of organized governance.
India’s history is not just old, it’s alive and breathing in its monuments, cities, and landscapes.
Top 5 Historical Places in India
1. The Taj Mahal, Agra: Built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal era.
2. The Holy City of Varanasi: One of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, Varanasi is a spiritual hub. The city’s ghats, where pilgrims bathe in the sacred Ganges River, offer a unique cultural experience.
3. The Golden Temple, Amritsar: The holiest shrine of Sikhism, the Golden Temple, is a serene and spiritual place. Its community kitchen serving free meals to thousands daily is a testament to the Sikh principles of service and equality.
4. The Red Fort, New Delhi: A symbol of India’s sovereignty, the Red Fort was the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Its grand architecture and the sound and light show are major attractions.
5. The Beaches of Goa: For a blend of history and leisure, head to Goa. Its beautiful beaches are dotted with remnants of Portuguese architecture.
India is not just a country; it’s a journey through time. So pack your bags, secure your India vacation deal, and get ready to explore the echoes of an ancient civilization that’s still alive in its traditions and monuments.
3. Iran (Persia)
Iran, formerly known as Persia, is a treasure trove of ancient civilisations, with a history dating back to 2800 BC.
Imagine walking through the ruins of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire, or exploring the ancient Elamite Kingdom.
Iran’s rich history is a testament to its resilience and cultural evolution.
Top Historical Places:
1. Persepolis: The ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire.
2. Naqsh-e Jahan Square: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Isfahan.
3. Golestan Palace: A masterpiece of the Qajar era, embodying Persian art and architecture.
4. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: Known as the Pink Mosque, it’s famous for its stunning stained glass windows.
5. Towers of Silence: Ancient Zoroastrian structures used for sky burial.
Iran is a testament to the resilience of ancient civilizations. With an Iran vacation deal, you can step back in time and walk the paths of the Persian Empire.
4. China
China, one of the oldest countries in the world, is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation.
From the Great Wall of China to the Terracotta Army, the historical places in China are as diverse as they are impressive.
Top Historical Experiences in China:
1. The Great Wall: An iconic symbol of China’s historical resilience.
2. Forbidden City: The imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty.
3. Terracotta Army: A collection of sculptures depicting the armies of the first Emperor of China.
4. Potala Palace: The winter palace of the Dalai Lama since the 7th century.
5. The Bund: A historic waterfront area in central Shanghai.
China is a living museum of ancient times. Grab your China vacation deal and prepare to be awed by the blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation.
5. Armenia
Armenia, one of the oldest countries in the world, is often overlooked. But with a history dating back to 860 BC, it’s a hidden gem for history lovers.
From the ancient Kingdom of Urartu to the beautiful monasteries scattered across the country, Armenia is a treasure trove of historical places.
Top Historical Experiences in Armenia:
1. Geghard Monastery: A medieval monastery partially carved out of the adjacent mountain.
2. Echmiadzin Cathedral: The mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
3. Khor Virap: A monastery located near Mount Ararat.
4. Noravank: A 13th-century Armenian monastery.
5. Zvartnots Cathedral: A 7th-century centrally planned aisled tetraconch type Armenian cathedral.
Armenia is a hidden gem for history lovers. With an Armenia vacation deal, you can explore the ancient Kingdom of Urartu and discover the beauty of this ancient nation.
6. Greece
Greece, one of the oldest countries in the world and the cradle of Western civilization, offers a journey through history like no other.
From the ancient city-states of Athens and Sparta to the mystical Mount Olympus, Greece is a living museum of ancient times.
Top Historical Experiences in Greece:
1. Acropolis of Athens: An ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens.
2. Delphi: An ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo.
3. Meteora: A rock formation hosting a precipitously built complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries.
4. Knossos: The largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete.
5. Epidaurus: An ancient Greek city, famous for its theatre.
Greece is the cradle of Western civilization. With a Greece vacation deal, you can journey through history and experience the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games.
7. Sudan (Nubia/Kush)
Sudan, once the Kingdom of Kush and one of the oldest countries in the world, is home to more pyramids than Egypt.
From the ancient city of Meroë to the temples of Soleb, Sudan’s historical places are a testament to a civilization that once rivaled Egypt.
Top Historical Experiences in Sudan:
1. Pyramids of Meroë: A UNESCO World Heritage site with over 200 pyramids.
2. Temple of Amun: An ancient temple in the city of Naqa.
3. Soleb Temple: The best-preserved Egyptian temple in Sudan.
4. Kerma: The capital city of the ancient Kingdom of Kerma.
5. El Kurru: An archaeological site with the tombs of the Nubian kings.
Sudan is a testament to a civilization that once rivaled Egypt. With a Sudan vacation deal, you can explore the Kingdom of Kush and marvel at more pyramids than Egypt.
8. Ethiopia
Ethiopia, the only African country never colonized and one of the oldest countries in the world, is a land of ancient kingdoms.
From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the ancient stelae of Axum, Ethiopia’s historical places are a window into a past that has shaped the country’s unique identity.
Top Historical Experiences in Ethiopia:
1. Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela: A complex of 11 monolithic rock-cut churches.
2. Obelisk of Axum: A 24-meter-tall granite stele/obelisk from 4th-century AD, weighing 160 tonnes.
3. Fasil Ghebbi: A fortress-city within Gondar, the residence of Ethiopian emperors during the 16th and 17th centuries.
4. Simien Mountains National Park: Home to some of the highest peaks in Africa.
5. Lake Tana Monasteries: Ancient monasteries and churches on the islands of Lake Tana.
Ethiopia is a land of ancient kingdoms. With an Ethiopia vacation deal, you can explore the only African country never colonized and discover its unique identity.
9. Japan
Japan, a country where ancient traditions coexist with modern life, has a history that dates back to the 4th century AD.
From the ancient temples of Kyoto to the vibrant city of Tokyo, Japan offers a unique blend of old and new.
Top Historical Experiences in Japan:
1. Kyoto’s Historic Monuments: Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera.
2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A memorial park in the center of Hiroshima, dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack.
3. Himeji Castle: A hilltop Japanese castle complex located in Himeji.
4. Nara Park: Home to many of Japan’s national treasures, including Todai-ji Temple.
5. Tokyo Imperial Palace: The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan.
Japan is a blend of old and new. With a Japan vacation deal, you can explore ancient traditions coexisting with modern life in this fascinating country.
10. Israel
Israel, a country steeped in history and conflict, is a fascinating destination for history buffs.
From the ancient walls of Jerusalem to the vibrant city of Tel Aviv, Israel offers a unique blend of ancient and modern cultures.
Top Historical Experiences in Israel:
1. Jerusalem’s Old City: Home to significant religious sites including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
2. Masada National Park: An ancient fortification in the Southern District of Israel.
3. Tel Aviv’s White City: A collection of over 4,000 Bauhaus or International style buildings built in Tel Aviv from the 1930s.
4. Sea of Galilee: Also known as Lake Tiberias or Kinneret, it’s a significant location in the New Testament.
5. Dead Sea: A salt lake bordered by Jordan and Israel, known for its therapeutic properties.
Israel is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern cultures. With an Israel vacation deal, you can explore the ancient walls of Jerusalem and the vibrant city of Tel Aviv.
These oldest countries in the world are more than just historical places.
They are living museums, each with its own unique blend of culture, history, and modernity.
So, if you’re planning your travels for 2023, these oldest countries should definitely be on your list.