Though the architecture has come a long way after the introduction of some tallest skyscrapers, it is quite worthy to see and appreciate the oldest architects in the world. These architects have some historical and cultural significance attached to them as most of them are tombs, temples or any other passage graves. Here are some of the oldest buildings in the world.
Oldest Architects in the World
Knap of Howar
One of the oldest architects in the world is the Knap of Howar, which records back to 3700 to 3500 BCE. The farmstead is one of the earliest, still-standing stone dwellings in Europe. It includes two stone homes connected through a secret passage and joint walls. Archaeologists say Irish or Scottish priests could be the first constructors and inhabitants of the Knap of Howar. Check out these incredible heritage sites by UNESCO.
Ġgantija Temples
The Megalithic Temples of Malta, or the Ġgantija Temples, record back to 3600 and 3200 BCE. The two temples on the island of Malta are UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s one of the ancient free-standing buildings in the world. Archaeologists believe the temple was used for ritual animal tributes.
Tarxien Temples
The Tarxien Temples are also in Malta and were constructed between 3600 and 2500 BCE. The ancient temple has mostly vanished, but people re-built the three others. The temples feature embellishing stone blocks, screens, and shrines. An elevated walkway added in 2012 makes it accessible for tourists to see the structures properly. Also check out these castles from Game of Thrones.
Shunet el-Zebib
Shunet el-Zebib is partly standing, but largely in ruins. It’s still, though, one of the oldest buildings in the world. The Egyptian stupa built in 2750 BCE is of mud and brick. It has an underground mausoleum as well as an above-ground complex. Architecturally, it’s an acceptance to the Egyptian pyramids soon to come.
Cairn de Barnenez
The Cairn de Barnenez in Brittany, France, dates back to 4850 BCE and remains on a hill facing the English Channel. The monument was once called the “Prehistoric Parthenon” by French writer and politician André Malraux. Although it has 11 passage tombs and two burial chambers, it might be fair to name it a building. Anyway, it’s one of the oldest structures on Earth. Check out the best islands in the world to visit.
West Kennet Long Barrow
Many of the ancient buildings in the world were also monuments or stupas, and West Kennet Long Barrow is no difference. Archaeologists think people built the cluster of barrows in 3600 BCE. They discovered the remains of 46 different people along with artifacts like ceramics, gems, and stone tools, according to Atlas Obscura. People have been making instruments, artwork, and ornaments for millions of years.
New Grange
One of the most prominent old structures in the world is New Grange, an old passage tomb in Boyne Valley, Ireland. The round structure covers about an acre and features a chamber with three niches. Although it’s 5,200 years old, tourists still visit to see the glowing passage during the winter solstice.
Tomb of Cyrus
Constructed in 530 BCE, the Tomb of Cyrus is one of Iran’s World Heritage Sites and one of the oldest architects on the globe. It’s also deemed to be one of the first earthquake-protected constructions in the world, according to Atlas Obscura. The base isolating used on the monument preserves the main structure from moving apart from the foundation.
