Imagine walking through a door that has welcomed visitors for nearly two millennia or soaking in a hot spring that has soothed travelers since the 8th century. The world is filled with remarkable artifacts, structures, and natural wonders that have stood the test of time, continuing to serve their original purposes. These enduring relics are not just historical curiosities; they are symbols of human ingenuity, resilience, and cultural preservation. In this expanded exploration, we delve into the stories behind the world’s oldest things still in use today, from ancient doors to timeless newspapers, and uncover the secrets of their longevity. Join us on a journey through history to discover these living links to our past.
1. The Oldest Door: Basilica Door of the Pantheon, Rome, Italy (1,900 Years Old)
The Basilica Door of the Pantheon in Rome is a marvel of ancient craftsmanship, standing as one of the oldest doors still in use today. Crafted from bronze around 120–124 AD during Emperor Hadrian’s reign, this door serves as the grand entrance to the Pantheon, a former Roman temple now known as the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs. The door’s survival is a testament to continuous maintenance and the Pantheon’s transformation from a pagan temple to a Christian church in 609 AD. Notably, the door is slightly smaller than its original marble frame, suggesting it may have been resized or replaced over time. The Pantheon itself is an architectural masterpiece, with its massive unreinforced concrete dome and oculus, which have inspired architects like Filippo Brunelleschi and Michelangelo. Today, the door welcomes millions of visitors annually, offering a tangible connection to ancient Rome.
Why It Endures: The door’s bronze construction and the Pantheon’s cultural significance have ensured its preservation through regular maintenance and repurposing.
2. The World’s Oldest Hotel: Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, Japan (1,300 Years Old)
Nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest hotel in the world. Founded in 705 AD by Fujiwara no Mahito, this traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) has been operated by 52 generations of the same family until 2017, when it transitioned to a new holding company. The hotel’s six natural hot spring baths, fed by the Hakuho Springs, have attracted guests ranging from samurai and shoguns, including Tokugawa Ieyasu, to modern tourists. Its traditional architecture, featuring tatami mats and shoji screens, reflects Japan’s cultural heritage, while modern amenities like Wi-Fi ensure its relevance today. The surrounding landscape, with views of Mount Fuji and the Hayakawa Valley, adds to its allure.
Why It Endures: The hotel’s location near therapeutic hot springs and its commitment to preserving Japanese hospitality traditions have sustained its operation for over 1,300 years.
3. The Ancient Clock: Salisbury Cathedral Clock, England (1386)
The Salisbury Cathedral Clock, installed in 1386, is the world’s oldest working mechanical clock. Located in Salisbury Cathedral, England, this clock lacks a traditional face, using chimes to mark time for religious services. Its simple yet robust design, featuring a system of weights and gears, has allowed it to function for over six centuries with regular maintenance. The clock’s significance lies in its representation of early mechanical timekeeping, a technological leap that paved the way for modern clocks. Visitors to the cathedral can still hear its chimes, a reminder of medieval ingenuity.
Why It Endures: The clock’s straightforward design and ongoing maintenance by skilled craftsmen have kept it operational.
4. The Eternal Road: The Appian Way, Italy (312 BC)
The Appian Way, constructed in 312 BC, is one of the oldest roads still in use. Stretching from Rome to southern Italy, this ancient highway was built with large stone slabs, a testament to Roman engineering. It served as a vital trade and military route, facilitating the expansion of the Roman Empire. Today, parts of the Appian Way are used as a tourist attraction and hiking trail, with its cobblestone paths offering a glimpse into ancient Rome’s infrastructure.
Why It Endures: The road’s solid construction and historical significance have ensured its preservation and continued use.
5. The Longest-Serving Lighthouse: Tower of Hercules, La Coruña, Spain (2nd Century)
The Tower of Hercules, built in the 2nd century AD, is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world. Constructed by the Romans in La Coruña, Spain, it has guided ships along the Atlantic coast for nearly 2,000 years. Its durable design, combined with periodic restorations, including a neoclassical facade added in the 18th century, has kept it functional. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lighthouse remains a vital navigational aid and a popular tourist destination.
Why It Endures: The tower’s robust Roman construction and regular restorations have maintained its functionality.
6. The Ancient Aqueduct: Pont du Gard, France (1st Century AD)
The Pont du Gard, a 1st-century AD Roman aqueduct in France, is a masterpiece of engineering. Built without mortar, its precise stonework transported water to the city of Nîmes. Parts of the aqueduct still manage water flow, while its three-tiered arches attract millions of tourists annually. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its historical importance.
Why It Endures: The aqueduct’s sturdy construction and cultural significance have ensured its preservation.
7. The Sacred Tree: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Sri Lanka (288 BC)
Planted in 288 BC, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Sri Lanka is the oldest living tree planted by humans. A sacred fig tree, it is believed to be a sapling from the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Cared for by Buddhist monks, it remains a major pilgrimage site, symbolizing spiritual continuity.
Why It Endures: Religious reverence and meticulous care by monks have preserved the tree for over 2,300 years.
8. The Oldest Brewery: Weihenstephan Brewery, Germany (1040)
The Weihenstephan Brewery, established in 1040 in Freising, Germany, is the world’s oldest continuously operating brewery. Adhering to the German Beer Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), it combines traditional brewing techniques with modern innovations. Its beers are enjoyed worldwide, reflecting its enduring legacy.
Why It Endures: The brewery’s commitment to quality and adaptation to modern tastes have sustained its operation.
9. The Enduring Castle: Windsor Castle, England (11th Century)
Windsor Castle, built in the 11th century, is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the world. A Norman fortress turned royal residence, it has hosted British monarchs for centuries and remains a venue for state events. Its strategic importance and royal patronage have ensured its upkeep.
Why It Endures: The castle’s role as a royal residence and its historical significance have driven continuous maintenance.
10. The Timeless Canal: The Grand Canal, China (5th Century BC)
The Grand Canal, begun in the 5th century BC, is the world’s longest and oldest canal, stretching over 1,100 miles in China. A vital trade route, it connects major cities and remains in use today. Regular dredging and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site have preserved its functionality.
Why It Endures: Strategic importance and ongoing maintenance have kept the canal operational.
11. The Oldest Continuously Published Newspaper: Gazzetta di Mantova, Italy (1664)
The Gazzetta di Mantova, first published in 1664 in Mantua, Italy, is the world’s oldest continuously published newspaper. It has chronicled local and national events for over 350 years, adapting to modern media with a digital edition while maintaining its print version. Its longevity reflects its role as a trusted source of news.
Why It Endures: The newspaper’s adaptability and historical significance have sustained its publication.
12. The Oldest Company: Kongō Gumi, Japan (578 AD)
Kongō Gumi, founded in 578 AD, is the world’s oldest continuously operating company. Originally a construction firm specializing in Buddhist temples, it has been involved in projects like Osaka Castle. Now a subsidiary of Takamatsu Construction Group, it continues to operate, blending tradition with modern techniques.
Why It Endures: The company’s focus on quality craftsmanship and adaptation to modern construction needs have ensured its survival.
13. The Oldest Bridge: Arkadiko Bridge, Greece (1300 BC)
The Arkadiko Bridge, built around 1300 BC in Greece, is one of the oldest arch bridges still in use. Constructed using Cyclopean masonry, it was part of a Mycenaean military highway. Today, it is used by local pedestrians and farmers, showcasing ancient Greek engineering.
Why It Endures: The bridge’s simple yet robust design has withstood millennia of use.
Preservation Challenges and Cultural Significance
Maintaining these ancient relics requires overcoming significant challenges, from environmental wear to modern development pressures. For example, the Pantheon’s door has been preserved through careful maintenance, while the Grand Canal requires regular dredging to remain navigable. These efforts highlight the dedication of communities and governments to preserving their heritage.
Culturally, these items are more than artifacts; they are living connections to our past. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi embodies Buddhist spirituality, while the Appian Way reflects Rome’s imperial legacy. Their continued use underscores their enduring relevance and the universal human desire to connect with history.
Expert Insight: Historian Dr. Mary Beard notes, “The survival of structures like the Pantheon and the Appian Way is a testament to Roman engineering and the cultural value placed on preserving history” (Source: SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome).
Conclusion
The world’s oldest things still in use today are more than relics; they are enduring symbols of human creativity and resilience. From the bronze doors of the Pantheon to the ancient Arkadiko Bridge, these treasures connect us to our ancestors and inspire awe at their longevity. By preserving these artifacts, we honor our shared heritage and ensure future generations can experience their wonder. We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments: Have you visited any of these sites? What other ancient wonders still in use deserve recognition?
