Five Members of the Most Ancient European Towns Network

The Most Ancient European Towns Network was founded in 1994 by a suggestion of the Argos council. It is a working group that discusses issues such as tourism, archaeological research and the incorporation of ancient monuments into modern urban planning. Today the group has a total of 10 members but it is expected that the number will grow in the upcoming years.

1. Argos, Greece – The Greek town of Argos has been continuously inhabited for over 7.000 years and is one of the oldest settlements not only in Europe but the world. In ancient times, Argos was a powerful rival of the legendary city of Sparta. Both states fought for dominance over the Peloponnese region. Today the town has a population of 24.700 people and is one of Greece’s most popular touristy destinations. The Heraion of Argos and the castle on Larissa Hill are the town’s most prominent landmarks.
2. Béziers, France – One of France’s oldest cities along Adge and Marseille, Béziers lies in the southern parts of the country. It is also one of the most visited cities in France, as it hosts the annual Feria de Béziers, one of Europe’s most famous bullfighting events. The Cathedral of Saint Nazaire is undoubtedly the city’s most prominent landmark. The structure dates back to the late 13th century and stands on the same site where the Massacre of Béziers took place in 1209.
3. Colchester, England – Considered as the oldest city in Great Britain, Colchester lies in the eastern parts of England. It has an estimate population of 122.000 people and is one of England’s most popular historic towns. Colchester Castle is the cities most visited landmark. The structure was built by the Normans and is one of the best preserved Norman castles in the world. It is listed as a Grade I edifice. So make sure that you visit the city once your move via man and van services in over. Don’t worry about using such services as nowadays most man and van companies work with highly affordable prices.
4. Cádiz, Spain – The oldest continuously inhabited city in Spain, Cádiz was founded by the Phoenicians in 1104 B.C. Today the city has a population of approximately 124.000 people and a density rate of 27.000 people per square mile. The old town of Cádiz is known throughout the world for its plazas, some of which are amongst the oldest in the world. The Cádiz Cathedral is another well-known place of interest that is visited by both local and foreign travelers.
5. Worms, Germany – This German city predates the Romans and is considered by numerous historians to be the oldest in Germany. It was over 80.000 inhabitants and lies in the southwestern parts of the country. The Worms Cathedral is arguably the most noted structure in the city. Until the 19th century the cathedral was the official seat of the Prince-Bishopric of Worms. The settlement is also home to some of the finest examples German Romanesque architecture.

The other members of the network are: Cork in Ireland, Évora in Portugal, Maastricht in Netherlands, Roskilde in Denmark and Tongeren in Belgium.