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Every year on 18th April, countries around the world celebrate World Heritage Day (International Day for Monuments and Sites). This day is to celebrate human history, heritage, archaeology, and ancient architecture through magnificent monuments. Many nations even offer free entry at popular monuments and sites in recognition of this day. If you are a traveler who loves history or ancient civilization, do take a look at this travel-friendly list of 25 oldest buildings in the World that you can actually visit not just on this day but all year round. From locations to origins, from what makes them unique to must visits, here’s a complete guide to the ancient sites that you can visit. 25 Oldest Buildings: Where They Are Located And Why They Matter Ġgantija Temples, Malta Location: Xagħra, Gozo Island Construction Date: c. 3700 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) These two limestone temple complexes are more than 5500 years old and among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The site predates Stonehenge and the Pyramids offer a rare look at Malta’s prehistoric Megalithic culture. Knap Of Howar, Scotland, UK Location: Papa Westray Island, Orkney Construction Date: c. 3700 BC Best Time To Visit: summer (June-August) This Neolithic farm on the island of Papa Westray is the oldest surviving building in the UK. It has two adjacent rounded rectangular thick-walled stone buildings with built-in stone furniture. Tarxien Temples, Malta Location: Tarxien Construction Date: c. 3250 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April–June) or autumn (September–November) This is a multi-chamber megalithic temple site used for ritual sacrifices and for cremation purpose. There is evidence of animal sacrifice at the site which was discovered by archaeologists. Newgrange, Ireland Location: Brú na Bóinne, Eastern Ireland Construction Date: c. 3200 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) Consisting of a large circular mound filled with decorated passageways and chambers, this Neolithic structure is thought to have had religious significance. The massive circular passage tombs are aligned with the winter solstice sunrise. Skara Brae, Scotland, UK Location: Bay of Skaill, Orkney Islands Construction Date: c. 3180 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April/May) or fall (September/October) One of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in Europe, Skara Brae is one of many prehistoric structures on the Orkney Islands. This stone-built village is often called the “Scottish Pompeii” as it is well preserved under layers of sand. Stonehenge, England, UK Location: Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire Construction Date: c. 3000 BC Best Time To Visit: shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) Perhaps the most famous prehistoric structure in all of Europe, no one really knows what the ring of standing stones at Stonehenge was used for. The iconic stone circle could have been a ceremonial, astronomical, or religious site. Pyramid Of Djoser, Egypt Location: Saqqara Necropolis, South of Cairo Construction Date: c. 2660 BC Best Time To Visit: cooler months of October to April Egypt’s oldest pyramid was built by the Pharaoh Djoser (Zoser). This step pyramid predates those at Giza by more than a century, making it the beginning of massive stone architecture in Egypt. Mohenjo Daro, Pakistan Location: Indus River Valley, Sindh Construction Date: c. 2600 BC Best Time To Visit: November to February One of the world’s earliest urban settlements, this city of the Indus Valley Civilization has sophisticated roads and drainage systems with two storied brick houses and public baths. Pyramids Of Giza, Egypt Location: Giza, Greater Cairo Construction Date: c.2560–2500 BC Best Time To Visit: winter months from November to February The three Pyramids of Giza are the last surviving wonder of the ancient world. The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and its monumental royal tomb complexes are truly astonishing in their magnificent scale and grandeur. Ziggurat Of Ur, Iraq Location: Near Nasiriyah, Southern Iraq Construction Date: c. 2100 BC Best Time To Visit: October to March The massive stepped pyramidal stepped temple tower was dedicated to the moon god Nanna. Near the mouth of the Tigris and the Euphrates, in what was the city of Ur. This Neo-Sumerian Ziggurat was partially reconstructed in the 1980s under Saddam Hussein. Karnak & Luxor Temples – Egypt Location: East Bank of the Nile, Luxor Construction Date: c. 2060 BC – 1085 BC Best Time To Visit: October to April Part of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, also called Waset, the temples of Karnak and Luxor as well as the nearby necropolis, the Valley of Kings, are awe-inspiring. Minoan Palace Of Knossos, Greece Location: Heraklion, Northern Crete Construction Date: c. 2000 – 1300 BC Best Time To Visit: spring or fall (April, May, September, October) This sprawling palace complex and nearby city were the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilization. The place with a population of 100,000 people was linked to the myth of King Minos and the Minotaur. Abu Simbel, Egypt Location: Lake Nasser, Southern Egypt Construction Date: c. 1264 BC Best Time To Visit: cooler months from October to April Located on the western bank of Lake Nasser, the twin temples were carved into a mountainside by Pharaoh Ramesses II. The temples were entirely relocated in 1968 when they were under threat of being submerged by the Aswan High Dam. Paestum (Poseidonia) Temples, Italy Location: South of Salerno Construction Date: c. 600–550 BC Best Time To Visit: shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October Once a major Greek city, Pasteum (Poseidonia in Greek) is famous for the remarkably well-preserved complex. The three temples in the Doric style were dedicated to Hera and Athena. Tomb Of Cyrus, Iran Location: Fars Province Construction Date: c. 530 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) Part of the ancient settlement of Pasargadae, the tomb of Cyrus the Great is near the hilltop fortress of Toll-e Takht. It is an UNESCO World Heritage site honoring the founder of the Persian Empire. Persepolis, Iran Location: Near Shiraz Construction Date: c. 522 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) The ancient capital of the first Persian Empire (Achaemenid Empire) was built by Darius the Great. This city would have been known as Pārsa to the ancient Persians. Parthenon, Greece Location: Acropolis Hill, Athens Construction Date: c. 447–432 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) Atop the Acropolis of Athens, this lavishly decorated temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena, patron of the city. While it is still under reconstruction, a full-scale replica can be found in Nashville. Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, Bulgaria Location: Kazanlak Valley Construction Date: c. 400–300 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (April-May) or early autumn (September) Part of a larger Thracian necropolis near the ancient Thracian capital of Seuthopolis, this tomb is full of colorful murals representing a ritual funeral feast. Philae Temple, Egypt Location: Agilkia Island, Aswan Construction Date: c. 380–362 BC Best Time To Visit: October through April One of the newest Egyptian temples, it is located on an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Low Dam. It was originally built on Philae Island and later relocated. Said to be the burial place of the god Osiris, it also contains a temple for his wife, Isis. Sanchi Stupa, Central India Location: Sanchi Town, Madhya Pradesh Construction Date: c. 300 BC Best Time To Visit: October to March Commissioned by the Emperor Ashoka, the Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India. It houses relics of the Buddha. Mausoleum Of The First Qin Emperor, China Location: Lintong District, Xi’an Construction Date: c. 246 BC Best Time To Visit: spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) Built over 38 years, this vast complex houses the famous Terracotta Army which guard the resting place of Qin Shi Huang (who also built the first part of the Great Wall). Ajanta Caves, India Location: Aurangabad District, Maharashtra Construction Date: c. 230 BC–650 AD Best Time To Visit: winter season (October to March) The 29 rock-cut Buddhist caves were started in the 2nd century BC, and their sculptures and paintings are among the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Sri Lanka Location: Anuradhapura Sacred City Construction Date: c. 140 BC Best Time To Visit: November to April Built by King Dutugemunu, this Sri Lankan stupa is still active as a pilgrimage site. It was renovated in the early 20th century. Maison Carrée, France Location: Nîmes, Southern France Construction Date: c. 16BC – 4AD Best Time To Visit: spring (May–June) and fall (September–October) Built during the early Imperial period, it is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world. Colosseum, Rome Location: Near the Roman Forum Construction Date: c. 70–80 AD Best Time To Visit: autumn (September-October) Rome’s most famous classical ruin is located just next to the ruins of the Roman Forum. This world-famous Flavian Amphitheatre seating well over 50,000 people. Colosseum, which is one of the oldest buildings in Europe once hosted Gladiator battles and public events. Why Studying These Old Buildings Matter Studying the world’s oldest buildings reveals few key information like: How early civilizations started. How architecture evolved over the years across continents. How climate, geography, and materials influenced and shaped construction styles. How there has been a global spread of culture, religion, and technology. Also Read: Have You Visited These Historic Indian Buildings? Conclusion These structures are not just relics, they are active cultural, archaeological, or religious sites. From Neolithic villages of Scotland to the grand temples of Egypt, Greece, China & India, the world’s oldest buildings highlight humanity’s shared heritage. If you wish to walk through thousands of years of history and understand what shaped the early civilizations, visiting these sites is a great idea. FAQs About The World’s Oldest Buildings How does World Heritage Day relate to historic buildings? The World Heritage Day (also called International Day for Monuments and Sites) is directly related to historic buildings because on this day its main purpose is to raise awareness about the historic buildings, its fragility and the need to protect and preserve the cultural and natural sites for future generations.  What criteria determine whether a building counts as one of the “oldest”? The "oldest building" title is often debated, however the key criteria for a building to be counted are as below:Definition of “building” (temple, home, tomb)Archaeological datingHow much original structure remainsWhether the building was continuously used. Can visitors go inside most of the buildings featured in the “25 oldest buildings” list? Yes, visitors can go inside many of these listed buildings and structures as they are major archaeological sites and historic tourist destinations. However, check before going as access may vary depending on the building's condition, location, and preservation status.

The world’s earliest religions emerged from geographic landscapes, human civilizations, cultural exchanges, and evolving societies. While most religions preach that their teachings have been around since the beginning of time, it is only a few ancient faiths that have stood the test of time. Today, a few of the oldest religions in the world are still in practice. Religions across the world offers a fascinating window into how people understood life, the universe, spirituality and morality. With this guide, we explore 10 of the oldest religions in the world, its origins, sacred sites, and its impact across regions. How Did These Religions Originate Both in the ancient world and in the Middle Ages, approaches to religion were a result of attempts to criticize or defend particular systems. Further, it was aimed at interpreting religion in harmony with changes in knowledge. Religions became global as commercial and cultural interaction between people across large areas was shared. These religious systems were the foundations of cultural communication and moral expectation. Because of this, people were meeting, sharing ideas, and doing business with one another beyond specific geographies. People were quick to adapt to religion because it provided structure and meaning, the same kind that is offered when one is part of a tight-knit community. Religious texts and tenets were able to speak to large groups of people, offering them a new kind of meaning and helping them define a purpose for their lives. What Are The Oldest Religions In The World? Tracing the exact beginning of each religion is difficult because many traditions evolved gradually. Some of the major cultural traditions of Europe, the Middle East, India, and China have been independent over extended periods of time. Due to this, no single history of the study of religion exists. Most of what we know about the oldest religions of the world today are based on suppositions, archaeological records, ancient manuscripts, and other sources that are subject to debate. Each faith has its own outlook, belief and practices. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are monotheistic. Hinduism, Buddhism and Daoism provide space for the worship of numerous powerful gods and goddesses in various incarnations. 10 Oldest Religions In The World It is natural to be curious about the inception of religion as we know it, as well as which religions have shaped the human experience into what it is today. So, here we’ve listed some of the oldest religions in the world based on common scholarly beliefs.  1. Hinduism Sadhus seated for mediation and chanting mantras. Origin: Indus River Valley, Modern-Day Pakistan & Northwest IndiaEstimated Beginning: 2300–1500 BCE Important Sites: Varanasi, Haridwar, Ayodhya, Badrinath, Mathura Hinduism is widely considered the world’s oldest religion that is still in practice. And going by this belief it can also be considered as the world’s first religion that is still practiced. This ancient religion does not have a particular founder or a single religious text. Instead, it combines many ancient traditions and beliefs. The Rig Veda is known to be the oldest scripture of Hinduism, dating back nearly 3,500 years. According to Hinduism, the four goals in an individual’s life include: Dharma: living a virtuous life Kama: the pleasure of the senses Artha: achieving wealth and success lawfully Moksha: release from reincarnation Archaeologists have also discovered bull and cow motifs, considered sacred animals in Hinduism, dating back to around 7,000 BCE. Millions of people around the world continue to practice the teachings of Hinduism, largely concentrated in India, Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia. Also Read: See These Beautiful Hindu Temples From Around The World 2. Judaism Beautiful interiors of a place of worship. Origin: Southern Levant — Modern-Day Israel, Palestine & JordanEstimated Beginning: Circa, 2000 BCE Important Sites: Jerusalem, Hebron, Safed, Tiberias Judaism was officially founded by Moses, although Jewish history traces it back to Abraham, who is considered to be the ancestor of the Jewish people. Being one of the oldest religions in the world, Judaism has several sacred texts but the most important is the Torah, which is part of a larger text known as the Tanakh or Hebrew Bible. Modern Judaism is divided into three main movements: Reform Judaism - more liberal and relaxed approach Orthodox Judaism - conservative and retains nearly all traditional practices and rituals Conservative Judaism: a moderate approach to Jewish practices 3. Zoroastrianism Reflection of the beautiful place of worship in a pond. Origin: Ancient Persia — Modern-Day IranEstimated Beginning: Circa 1,500 BC Important Sites: City of Yazd, Abarkuh, Ahura Mazda Zoroastrianism was officially founded in the 6th Century BCE by the prophet and reformer Zoroaster. Archaeological evidence shows that the religion’s roots trace back to 1,200-1,500 BCE. It was also the official religion of Persia from 600 BCE to 650 BCE. Core beliefs of the religion are: Worship of only one God called Ahura Mazda, the supreme God. A dualistic focusing on — good vs evil, heaven vs hell At one point in time, it was considered to be one of the most powerful religions in the world. It shares many major concepts with religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. 4. Jainism Jainism is an ancient religion from India. Origin: IndiaEstimated Beginning: Circa 600 BCE Important Sites: Sammed Shikharji, Girnar, Deogarh, Pawapuri, Ranakpur Jainism is an ancient religion from India that shares similar beliefs and traditions with Hinduism and Buddhism. Jainism does not have a single religious text that its believers refer to. Instead, adherents believe that the truth has been revealed at different times by Tirthankaras (prophets). These prophets have achieved the highest spiritual goal of existence. Followers of the religion believe that there have been 24 Tirthankaras so far. The last of these was Mahavira, who is considered the founder of Jainism. 5. Buddhism Peaceful looking statue of Lord buddha. Origin: Indian Subcontinent — Modern-Day Nepal & IndiaEstimated Beginning: 600–400 BCE Important Sites: Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar Buddhism traces its origins to one founder Siddhartha Gautama, who was allegedly a prince born in modern-day Nepal, 2,500 years ago. Siddhartha left behind his opulent life after witnessing human suffering for the first time ever. He contemplated the meaning of life and attained enlightenment and transformed into the Buddha, sitting beneath the Bodhi tree (the tree of awakening). Ever since all followers of Buddhism practice his peaceful teachings and seek the path of enlightenment. Four noble truths of Buddhist teachings: Magga - path to the cessation of suffering. Dukkha - Existence is suffering Trishna - suffering has a cause namely craving and attachment. Nirodha - cessation of suffering, which means there is a possibility of cessation of suffering. Book Now: Mikkyo Buddhism Spiritual Experience 6. Taoism Yin and yang symbol of Taoism. Origin: ChinaEstimated Beginning: Circa 500 BCE Important Sites: Mount Qingcheng, Wudang Mountain, Longhu Mountain, Qiyun Mountain Also known as Daoisim, this ancient religion is primarily based on the teachings of the Tao Te Ching, a short book containing the teachings of Lao Tzu. It places great emphasis on spiritual harmony within the individual. Prior to the Communist Revolution, Taoism was one of China’s strongest religions and is also practiced in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe and America. There are two major schools of Taoism: Philosophical Taoism (Tao-chia) which tends to focus on the writings of Lao Tzu. Religious Taoism (Tao-chiao) which emphasises religious rituals aimed at attaining immortality. 7. Confucianism Confucius focuses on reviving the values and beliefs of the Zhou dynasty. Origin: Northern ChinaEstimated Beginning: Circa 500 BCE Important Sites: Temples of Confucius Qufu and Beijing Confucianism is recognized as a religion, but not practiced as a traditional, organized one. It gets its name from its founder Confucius (an Anglicization of his actual name K’ung-fu-tzu or Master K’ung). Confucius was interested in reviving the values and beliefs of the Zhou dynasty. Believers of Confucianism see it as a system of social and ethical philosophy. Over time, Confucianism has had a strong impact on the spiritual and political life of the Chinese people. Its influence has made its way to many parts of East Asia including Korea, Vietnam, and Japan. 8. Shintoism Shinto shrine gate right in the middle of the water. Origin: JapanEstimated Beginning: Circa 700 BCE Important Sites: Nachi Falls, Ise Grand Shrine Many believe that Shinto officially began only after Buddhism was introduced to Japan around the 6th Century BCE. However, archaeological records mention that Shinto’s roots date back to 700 BCE with some documents dating back even further. Many Buddhist elements are mixed into the Shinto faith and traditions. Shinto has no founder and no official sacred scriptures. The ruling aristocracy declared Shinto to be Japan’s state religion during the Meiji Period (1868 – 1912). Shinto and Buddhism continue to remain an intrinsic part of Japanese society and culture. Guiding principles of the Shinto religion: The belief in the importance and beauty of nature is also integral to this religion. Everything possesses a spiritual essence or energy called ‘kami’. Mountains, rivers, places, animals, and people are said to have ‘kami’ within them. 9. Christianity Just like in Judaism, Christianity is also a monotheistic religion. Origin: Judea — Modern-Day Middle EastEstimated Beginning: Circa 30 CE Important Sites: Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Capernaum Christianity is one of the oldest religions in the world which has birthed out of Judaism. It is formed and based around the life, death and teachings of a Jewish person called Jesus Christ. Just like in Judaism, Christianity is a monotheistic religion where they believe that there is only one God. The main teachings of Christianity are centred on loving everyone, having goodness, humility, self-control and faithfulness. With more than 2.4 billion people following Christianity, it is the most widely practiced organized religion in the world. Sacred book of Christianity, the Bible is divided into the Old Testament and the New Testament: The Old Testament - The first division of the Bible explains the creation of the World and about the Ten Commandments by God. The New Testament - The second division of the Bible focuses more on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. 10. Islam Islam means submission to the will of God. Origin: Arabian Peninsula — Modern-Day Saudi ArabiaEstimated Beginning: 610 CE Important Sites: Mecca & Medina Just like Judaism and Christianity, Islam is also monotheistic. The word Islam means “submission to the will of God.” They believe that Prophet Muhammad was sent by God to spread the teachings of their faith and share his divine word. The Quran, the most sacred text in the Islamic faith, is written as if Allah himself wrote it. With more than 1.9 billion people practicing Islam worldwide, it is the second-largest religion in the world. Five key pillars of Islam: Hajj – to embark on a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once. Shahada – to declare one’s faith. Salah – to pray 5 times a day: in the morning, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening. Zakat – to give to and help those in need. Sawm – to take part in Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting. What Does Studying The World’s OldestReligions Reveal It is always an incredibly fascinating journey to understand how religion has evolved over the years and what it has morphed into in today’s modern times. Religion has been a driving factor in the lives of many individuals and has a major impact on worldviews and the way they choose to lead their lives. Understanding the oldest religion in the world helps us see what ideas and beliefs we have chosen to discard and what we have considered worthy enough to keep around. Suggested Reads: What Is Religious Tourism And What Are The Challenges It Is Facing? Conclusion As time progressed, the nature of religion began to be questioned alongside the growth of various disciplines like sociology and psychology. These fields offered a more analytical approach to religion while theology became more sophisticated, basing itself on science. This promoted an interdisciplinary study of religion and its origin, working to understand the inception of religion and how people are driven by it. The world’s oldest religions are not just historical subjects—they are living traditions that continue to shape the countries, cultures, and communities worldwide. FAQs What is the oldest religion in the World?  According to most scholars, Hinduism is the world’s oldest religion with roots dating back to almost 4,000 years. What is the youngest religion? Sikhism is relatively the youngest of the major world religions. It was founded by Guru Nanak between the 15th-17th century sub-continental India. Guru Nanak being a rebel during his time, rejected the faiths presented to him and started preaching his own. What are the richest religions in the world? According to a study done by the nonpartisan wealth research firm, Christians with 55% of the total world wealth hold the largest amount of wealth followed by Muslims with 6.5%, Hindus with 3.9%, and Jews with 1.7%. The remaining 32.9% are held by the other religions.