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10 Oldest Buildings In The World
Throughout history, humanity has constructed remarkable buildings that have withstood the test of time, offering us glimpses into ancient civilizations and their architectural prowess. These awe-inspiring structures have witnessed countless generations and are a testament to human ingenuity.
Join us as we embark on a journey to discover some of the oldest buildings in the world, each holding a unique story within its ancient walls.
1. Göbekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe is an ancient religious site in southeastern Turkey, known as one of the oldest in the world. It was built around 9600 BCE by hunter-gatherer societies and has impressive stone pillars with detailed carvings, making it a remarkable archaeological site.
2. Pyramid of Djoser
The Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, Egypt, was built in the 27th century BCE. It is widely regarded as the world’s first colossal stone building and was designed by architect Imhotep. This ancient pyramid transformed tomb construction and influenced the iconic pyramids of Giza.
The entrance to the tomb is a covered passageway with a limestone ceiling designed to resemble tree trunks. It leads to a stone representation of two open doors, where you’ll find 20 pairs of limestone columns that look like bundles of plant stems.
The burial chamber, made of four layers of well-dressed granite, has a single opening. After the burial, a 3.5-ton block sealed the opening.
3. Van Fortress
The Van Fortress, built by the Uratu kingdom in Turkey, is a remarkable and large fortress. It dates back to the 8th century BCE and showcases the building skills of the Urartians. The fortress holds records of the kingdom’s history. Throughout history, it was occupied by various groups including Medes, Achaemenids, Armenians, Parthians, Romans, Sassanid Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, Seljuks, Safavids, Afsharids, Ottomans, and Russians.
4. Nuraghe Santu Antine
Nuraghe Santu Antine is a remarkable archaeological site in Sardinia. It is the oldest megalithic building in the region and is located in the Valley of Nuraghi, built-in 1600 BCE
The official name of the structure is Nuraghe Santu Antine, possibly named after Saint Constantine, known as Antine in Sardis. However, the locals refer to it as Sa Domu de su Re, meaning the “House of the King,” giving us some insight into its purpose.
The main attraction of Nuraghe Santu Antine is its central tower, dating back to the 16th century BCE. Surrounding the central tower are three smaller towers, connected by large walls.
5. La Fortaleza
La Fortaleza, also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico San Juan’s harbor. The oldest continuously used executive mansion in the New World, La Fortaleza, holds a significant distinction. It forms part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, “La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site,” established in 1983.
The complex now includes several connected buildings. The formal living quarters are located on the second floor, while the private quarters are on the third floor. La Fortaleza offers a view of the high city walls facing the bay, and it has sheltered gardens and a swimming pool within its northern perimeter.
6. Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt’s largest pyramid, serves as Pharaoh Khufu’s tomb. Egyptians built it approximately 4,600 years ago, completing the construction over a period of 27 years. This pyramid is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is mostly intact. It is part of the Giza pyramid complex and is located at the northern end of the pyramid line.
Originally, the Great Pyramid stood at a height of 146.6 meters (481 feet) and was the tallest artificial structure for over 3,800 years. The core structure is what remains visible today. The base of the pyramid measures about 230.3 meters (755.6 feet) square, with a total volume of approximately 2.6 million cubic meters (92 million cubic feet), including an internal hill.
7. Tower of Hercules
The Tower of Hercules stands as the oldest lighthouse that remains erect. Constructed in the 1st century, it resides on a peninsula approximately 2.4 km (1.5 mi) away from the center of A Coruña, Galicia, in northwestern Spain. Prior to the 20th century, it bore the name Farum Brigantium, derived from the Greek term Pharos, signifying the Lighthouse of Alexandria. With a height of 55 meters (180 ft), the tower commands a view of the North Atlantic coast of Spain. Its renovation took place in 1791.
The lighthouse grounds include a sculpture garden featuring works by Pablo Serrano and Francisco Leiro. The Tower of Hercules is a National Monument of Spain and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 27 June 2009. It is the second-tallest lighthouse in Spain, after the Faro de Chipiona.
8. Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple, situated in Odisha, India, dates back to the 13th century when King Narasimhadeva I constructed it as a tribute to the Hindu Sun God Surya. This ancient temple, originally standing at over 200 feet, now resembles a stone chariot with intricate carvings. Its distinctive architecture and artwork, including depictions of intimate scenes, have earned it a renowned reputation.
While the exact cause of its destruction remains uncertain, historians speculate that the temple suffered damage either from natural events or attacks by Muslim armies. Presently, the temple has undergone partial restoration and holds the esteemed status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. St. George’s Basilica, Prague
St. George’s Basilica, built in 920, is the oldest church building in Prague Castle, Czech Republic. It is dedicated to Saint George and holds historical and spiritual importance as part of the castle’s collection and the Czech state’s spiritual center.
10. McIntire Garrison House
The McIntire Garrison House in York, Maine, is an old house built around 1707. The log garrison house in New England is a historic landmark built by settlers for protection against Native American attacks. It is one of the oldest houses in the state and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1968.