## The Top 20 Oldest Countries in the World
The world is rich with ancient civilizations and countries whose histories stretch back millennia. These nations have withstood the test of time, preserving their cultural heritage and historical significance. Here’s a look at the top 20 oldest countries in the world, each with a fascinating story to tell.
### 1. **Egypt**
**Founded:** c. 3100 BC
Egypt is often considered the cradle of civilization, with its roots tracing back to the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt by the first Pharaoh, Narmer. The ancient Egyptians made significant contributions to writing, architecture, and art, leaving behind a legacy seen in their monumental pyramids and temples.
### 2. **China**
**Founded:** c. 2070 BC
The Xia Dynasty marks the beginning of China’s long and continuous history. China’s rich cultural heritage includes the development of writing, philosophy, and sophisticated governance systems, which have shaped not only the country but the entire world.
### 3. **Iran (Persia)**
**Founded:** c. 550 BC
Modern-day Iran traces its origins to the Achaemenid Empire founded by Cyrus the Great. Ancient Persia was renowned for its advances in architecture, engineering, and administration, and played a central role in shaping the history of the Middle East.
### 4. **India**
**Founded:** c. 1500 BC
The history of India is marked by the establishment of the Vedic Civilization along the Ganges River. India’s contributions to mathematics, science, and spirituality have had a profound impact on global culture.
### 5. **Greece**
**Founded:** c. 800 BC
Ancient Greece is often credited with laying the foundation for Western civilization. The Greeks made pioneering advancements in philosophy, politics, and the arts, influencing countless aspects of modern life.
### 6. **Ethiopia**
**Founded:** c. 980 BC
Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in Africa, with a history that predates the rise of Christianity. The Kingdom of Aksum, one of the ancient world’s great empires, was located here and is often associated with the Queen of Sheba.
### 7. **Japan**
**Founded:** c. 660 BC
Japan’s history is steeped in mythology, with Emperor Jimmu being recognized as the nation’s first emperor. Japan has maintained a unique culture and identity, strongly influenced by Shintoism and Buddhism.
### 8. **San Marino**
**Founded:** 301 AD
San Marino claims to be the world’s oldest surviving republic. This tiny enclave, surrounded by Italy, was founded by a Christian stonemason named Marinus, and it has preserved its independence for over 1,700 years.
### 9. **Armenia**
**Founded:** c. 600 BC
Armenia is one of the earliest countries to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD. Its history is marked by its location at the crossroads of major empires, leading to a rich and complex cultural heritage.
### 10. **Vietnam**
**Founded:** c. 2879 BC
Vietnam’s history begins with the legendary Hồng Bàng Dynasty, which laid the foundation for the nation’s identity. Vietnam has a long tradition of resistance against foreign rule, contributing to its strong sense of national pride.
### 11. **Georgia**
**Founded:** c. 1300 BC
The history of Georgia is marked by the ancient kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia. Georgia was among the first countries to adopt Christianity, and its cultural heritage is a blend of Eastern and Western influences.
### 12. **Israel**
**Founded:** c. 1000 BC
The history of Israel dates back to the biblical Kingdom of Israel and Judah. It is a land deeply intertwined with the origins of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, making it a focal point of religious and historical significance.
### 13. **Sri Lanka**
**Founded:** c. 543 BC
The history of Sri Lanka is closely linked to the arrival of the Sinhalese people, who established the first kingdoms. The island nation is known for its rich Buddhist heritage and ancient architectural marvels.
### 14. **Korea**
**Founded:** c. 2333 BC
According to legend, Korea was founded by Dangun Wanggeom. Korea’s history is characterized by its dynasties, which contributed to the development of a distinct culture, including the creation of the Korean script, Hangul.
### 15. **Portugal**
**Founded:** 1139 AD
Portugal emerged as an independent kingdom after the Battle of Ourique. It became a major maritime power during the Age of Exploration, with its navigators discovering new lands and establishing a global empire.
### 16. **Turkey**
**Founded:** c. 1299 AD
Modern Turkey traces its roots to the Ottoman Empire, which was founded by Osman I. The country’s history is a bridge between the ancient civilizations of Anatolia and the modern Republic established by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
### 17. **Nepal**
**Founded:** c. 8th century BC
Nepal is one of the oldest countries in South Asia, with its history closely tied to the ancient kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley. It is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.
### 18. **Bulgaria**
**Founded:** 681 AD
Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe, with its establishment marked by the formation of the First Bulgarian Empire. The country played a crucial role in the spread of Slavic culture and Orthodox Christianity.
### 19. **France**
**Founded:** 843 AD
France’s history as a unified nation began with the Treaty of Verdun, which divided the Carolingian Empire. France became a central power in Europe, influencing art, science, and politics throughout the centuries.
### 20. **Denmark**
**Founded:** 10th century AD
Denmark is one of the oldest kingdoms in Europe, with its history rooted in the Viking Age. It has a long tradition of monarchy and has played a significant role in shaping Northern European history.
### Conclusion
These ancient countries have not only survived the passage of time but have also played crucial roles in shaping the history and culture of the world. Their rich heritages continue to influence the modern era, offering a deep well of knowledge and tradition that enriches the global community. Whether through contributions to religion, science, art, or governance, the oldest countries in the world remain beacons of human achievement and resilience.