NAME: Lippaen, Ronalyn L.

COURSE: BSED

SUBJECT: Urban Geography MAJOR: Social Studies

INSTRUCTOR: Sir, Liman, Claudio CLASS SCHEDULE: MWF (3-4:00pm)

What is Ancient city?

BY LUIS JOSHUA GUTIERREZ, DAN HAMMILL, SAMUEL HEANEY, +39.9K MORE(JUN 15, 2022)

An ancient city refers to a historical urban settlement that was established and inhabited during ancient
times. These cities were typically characterized by their architectural, cultural, and historical significance.
Ancient cities played a crucial role in the development of early civilizations and served as centers of
political, economic, religious, and social activities. They often featured impressive structures such as
temples, palaces, walls, and marketplaces. Examples of ancient cities include Rome, Athens, Babylon,
and Alexandria.

Top 10 maps showing world’s oldest cities

Ancient city maps are important to trace human existence in the history. These early world maps
provide key evidences to trace human history through classical antiquity. Below you’ll find 10 maps of
the world’s ancient cities.

1.Aleppo, Syria

The largest city in the Syrian region, Aleppo is the largest populous state in Syria. It is also an ancient
metropolis, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.The city may have been
inhabited since the 6th millennium BC.

2.Alexendria, Egypt

Alexandria was founded around a small Ancient Egyptian town in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. It
became an important center of the Hellenistic civilization and remained the capital of Hellenistic and
Roman and Byzantine Egypt for almost 1,000 years until the Muslim conquest of Egypt in AD 641.

3.Athens, Greece

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. It is one of the world’s oldest cities, with its recorded
history spanning over 3,400 years, and its earliest human presence starting somewhere between the
11th and 7th millennia BC.

4.Babylonia, Iraq

Babylonia, or Babylon, was a major city of ancient Mesopotamia in the fertile plain between the Tigris
and Euphrates rivers. The city was built upon the Euphrates and divided in equal parts along its left and
right banks, with steep embankments to contain the river’s seasonal floods. Babylon was originally a
small Semitic Akkadian city dating from the period of the Akkadian Empire c. 2300 BC.

5.Damascus, Syria

Damascus is the largest city of Syria. A one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world,
Damascus is commonly known in Syria as ash-Sham and nicknamed as the City of Jasmine.

6.Mohenjo Daro, Pakistan

Mohenjo-daro is an archeological site in the province of Sindh, Pakistan. Built around 2500 BCE, it was
one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, and one of the world’s earliest
major urban settlements. Mohenjo-daro was abandoned in the 19th century BCE as the Indus Valley
Civilization declined, and the site was not rediscovered until the 1920s.

7.Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, that is located in the Judaean Mountains between the
Mediterranean and the Dead Sea. Significant construction activity in Jerusalem began in the 9th century
BCE, and in the 8th century the city developed into the religious and administrative center of the
Kingdom of Judah.

8.Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel situated on a mountain ridge 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above
sea level. It is the most familiar icon of Inca civilization. The Incas built the estate around 1450 but
abandoned it a century later at the time of the Spanish Conquest.

9.Mayan Civilisation, Mexico

The Maya civilization was a Mesoamerican civilization developed by the Maya peoples, and noted for its
hieroglyphic script—the only known fully developed writing system of the pre-Columbian Americas. The
first Maya cities developed around 750 BC, and by 500 BC these cities possessed monumental
architecture, including large temples with elaborate stucco façades.

10.Varanasi (Benares), India

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is a city on the banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, is the earliest
known settlements around Varanasi in the Ganges valley that began in the 20th century BC. It is also the
world’s oldest continually inhabited cities according to Kenneth Fletcher. Recent excavations at Aktha
and Ramnagar, two sites very near to Varanasi, show them to be from 1800 BC, suggesting Varanasi was
also inhabited by this time.

FUNCTIONS OF ANCIENT CITIES

Ancient cities around the world served various functions, often depending on their geographical
location, cultural context, and historical period.
1. Political and Administrative Centers: Ancient cities were often the seat of government where rulers
resided and administrative decisions were made. Examples include Rome in Italy, Athens in Greece, and
Beijing in China.

2. Economic Hubs: Many ancient cities were established near resources or along trade routes and served
as economic centers. Cities like Babylon in Mesopotamia, and Timbuktu in Mali were important trade
centers.

3. Religious Centers: Some cities were primarily religious centers, housing important temples, shrines, or
religious structures. Examples include Jerusalem in Israel, Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and Varanasi in India.

4. Cultural and Educational Centers: Ancient cities were often places where cultural and intellectual
activities thrived. Athens was known for its philosophers, Alexandria in Egypt for its library, and Nalanda
in India for its university.

5. Military Strongholds: Some cities were strategically located or fortified to serve as military bases or
defensive structures. Examples include the Great Zimbabwe in Africa, and Sparta in Greece.

6. Agricultural Centers: In civilizations where agriculture was a primary economic activity, cities often
served as centers for the storage and distribution of surplus crops. This was the case with many cities in
the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.

7. Industrial Centers: Some ancient cities were known for specific industries or crafts. For example,
ancient Athens was known for its pottery, while ancient Rome was known for its engineering marvels.

FUNCTIONS OF THE ANCIENT CITY OF ATHENS.

It was an educational center.

It was a center of sports.

It was a religious center.

It was a recreation center/provided entertainment/music.

It was a cultural/theatre/arts center.

It was a trading/commercial center.

It was a transport/communication center.

It was an administrative center.

It was a cultural center/music/art/theatre

It was an educational center

It was a sports center.

It was a religious center.

Center: Definitions, Formulas, & Examples

The word “center” has a long and complex history, tracing back to the ancient civilizations of Greece,
Rome, and China. In these societies, the term was used to refer to the central point of a city, a
marketplace, or a gathering place for people.

The concept of the center also played a significant role in the development of religion and philosophy. In
early civilizations, the center was often associated with religious and political power, serving as the focal
point for religious ceremonies and political gatherings.

In the Middle Ages, the term “center” was used to describe the central point of a castle or fortification.
This use of the word reflected the strategic importance of the center in military operations, as it was
often the point of defense against attackers.

With the rise of the modern state and the growth of cities, the concept of the center took on new
meanings. In urban centers, the term was used to describe the heart of the city, where the most
important buildings and institutions were located. This included government buildings, business centers,
and cultural institutions like museums and theaters.

In the 20th century, the concept of the center continued to evolve. In the post-World War II era,
suburbanization led to the development of new centers outside of traditional urban cores. These
suburban centers often took the form of shopping malls, which became central gathering places for
communities.

In recent years, the rise of digital technology has also impacted the concept of the center. The Internet
has created virtual centers, where people can gather and interact online, regardless of physical location.
This has led to the emergence of new forms of community and social interaction, as well as new forms
of commerce and commerce.

Examples:

Geometric Center:

The geometric center of a two-dimensional shape is the point that is equidistant from all points on the
perimeter of the shape. In other words, it is the center of mass of the shape. The geometric center is
also known as the center of gravity or the center of mass. In three dimensions, the geometric center is
the point that is equidistant from all points on the surface of the object.

The concept of the geometric center is important in many fields, including physics, engineering, and
mathematics. In physics, the geometric center is used to determine the stability and balance of objects,
such as a bridge or a building. In engineering, the geometric center is used to design and analyze
structures, such as airplanes and ships. In mathematics, the geometric center is used in geometry and
trigonometry, to solve problems involving shapes and angles.
There are several methods to determine the geometric center of a two-dimensional shape, including the
center of mass method and the balance method. The center of mass method involves finding the
average position of all points on the perimeter of the shape, while the balance method involves
physically balancing the shape on a pivot point.

In three dimensions, the geometric center is often more complex to determine, and may involve more
advanced mathematical techniques, such as calculus and vector calculus. In some cases, the geometric
center may be calculated by taking the average position of all points on the surface of the object, while
in other cases, it may be calculated using the principle of moments.

The geometric center is a useful tool for analyzing and understanding the properties of shapes and
objects. For example, in physics, the geometric center is used to determine the center of gravity of an
object, which is the point where the object will balance. In engineering, the geometric center is used to
design and analyze structures, such as bridges and buildings, to ensure they are stable and safe. In
mathematics, the geometric center is used to study geometric shapes and angles, and to solve problems
involving these shapes.

City Center:

City center refers to the central area of a city, typically containing the main commercial and cultural
activities, as well as government buildings and public spaces. It is the heart of the city and often serves
as a hub for transportation, communication, and social interaction.

City centers are usually characterized by high population density, bustling activity, and a diverse mix of
residential, commercial, and office buildings. They often feature iconic landmarks, such as famous
buildings, public squares, and monuments, that reflect the city’s history, cultural heritage, and
architectural style.

City centers are usually designed as walkable environments, with pedestrian-friendly streets, well-
maintained sidewalks, and a mix of shops, restaurants, and other amenities that encourage people to
spend time outdoors. They often feature public transportation systems, such as subways, buses, and
trains, making it easy for people to get around and access different parts of the city.

The role of the city center has evolved over time, reflecting changing social and economic conditions. In
the past, city centers were the hub of commercial and industrial activity, but with the rise of
suburbanization and globalization, many city centers have become more focused on providing cultural,
entertainment, and leisure options.

City centers are also important centers of political and civic life. They often feature government
buildings, such as city halls and courthouses, and public spaces, such as parks and plazas, that serve as
gathering places for citizens and as venues for public events and demonstrations.

Attention Center: Attention centers refer to the specific regions in the brain responsible for controlling
and directing attention. The attention center helps us focus on a task and filter out distractions. The
primary attention center is located in the frontal lobe, but other regions of the brain are also involved in
attention control. The attention center interacts with other parts of the brain to control our perception,
thoughts and behaviors. It is an important part of our cognitive and emotional processing, allowing us to
prioritize information and respond effectively to the environment. Attention deficit disorders, such as
ADHD, can result from imbalances or disruptions in the attention center. Treatment for attention
disorders typically involves medication and behavioral therapy.

Political Center:

The political center refers to the moderate or centrist positions on the political spectrum, between the
right-wing and left-wing extremes. These positions are often characterized by a belief in compromise,
moderation, and a rejection of radical or extremist ideas.

In many democratic societies, the center is seen as a key force for stability and consensus building. By
taking moderate positions, center-aligned political parties and candidates can appeal to a broad cross-
section of voters, and provide a unifying force in times of political division.

One of the key advantages of the political center is its flexibility. Centrist politicians are often able to
adapt to changing circumstances and respond to the needs of their constituents. This can be seen in
their willingness to modify their positions on issues, or to seek common ground with opposing political
factions.

However, the political center is not without its challenges. Critics argue that centrist politicians are too
cautious and risk-averse, and that they lack the conviction to take bold and decisive action. They also
argue that the center is often a product of political expediency, and that politicians who claim to
represent it are often more concerned with maintaining their own power and influence, rather than
serving the public interest.

Despite these criticisms, the political center remains a vital force in many democratic societies. Whether
it is promoting stability, bridging political divides, or serving as a platform for meaningful dialogue and
compromise, the center plays a critical role in shaping the political landscape and shaping the future of
our world.

Intellectual Center:

An intellectual center refers to a geographic location or group of people that fosters and nurtures an
environment of intellectualism and creativity. It’s where people engage in critical thinking, generate new
ideas and theories, and exchange knowledge and information.

There are several characteristics that define an intellectual center:

Concentration of highly educated individuals: Intellectual centers are characterized by a high

concentration of scholars, researchers, professors, and other highly educated individuals. These
individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the community, making it a hub for
innovation and creativity.
Cultural institutions: Intellectual centers often have a rich cultural heritage and are home to numerous
museums, libraries, art galleries, and other cultural institutions that encourage learning and exploration.

Free exchange of ideas: Intellectual centers promote the free exchange of ideas and the open discussion
of diverse viewpoints. This is achieved through regular events, such as lectures, conferences, and
debates, which provide a platform for intellectual discourse.

Access to resources: Intellectual centers are equipped with the resources necessary for intellectual
pursuits, such as libraries, universities, research centers, and cutting-edge technology.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: Intellectual centers often foster interdisciplinary collaboration between

different fields of study, allowing for the exploration of complex issues from multiple perspectives.

Intellectual centers have existed throughout history, with many famous ones such as Athens, Alexandria,
and Baghdad in ancient times and cities like Paris, Berlin, and Cambridge in more recent times.

Power Center: What it Means, How it Works, Types

By JAMES CHEN Updated October 30, 2021

What Is a Power Center?

A power center is a large (250,000 to 750,000 square ft.) outdoor shopping mall that usually includes
three or more "big box" stores. This type of property might include smaller retailers and restaurants that
are either free-standing or located in strip plazas and surrounded by a shared parking lot. Power centers
are built for the convenience of motorists. Unlike traditional indoor shopping malls and standalone big
box stores, power centers often have distinctive architectural features.

How a Power Center Works

The first power center opened in Colma, Calif. in 1986. Since then, the power center model has steadily
edged out the traditional shopping mall. Renovations of older malls commonly involve turning them into
power centers rather than add new retail space to existing facilities. For space reasons, power centers
are predominantly located in the suburbs. There are exceptions when urban areas are redeveloped to
accommodate a power center.

Power centers are often designed to make the big-box anchor tenants highly visible to consumers and
the additional retailers are laid out to complement their presence. For example, the major anchor
tenants could include a large supermarket, a seller of home furnishings, and a big-box electronics and
appliance retailer. Each major tenant offers frequently sought products that consumers regularly
purchase. The anchor tenants are typically chosen so they will not conflict or cannibalize each other’s
customers.

For instance, the customer visiting the supermarket restocks on food for their home. They might also
drop by the appliance retailer to look for a new refrigerator for their kitchen. Paying a visit to the home
furnishings store would offer them the chance to pick out a new sofa for their living room.
The smaller tenants in a power center might be specialty retailers or eateries. This can include hair and
nail salons, wine stores, and wireless phone sellers. Small casual and quick-serve dining establishments
may be positioned here to offer shoppers a place to have a meal as they make their way between the
anchor tenants. The amount of time that consumers spend at a power center can increase with the
diverse options made available to them. The inclusion of a movie theater on such a property adds an
entertainment option to attract more visitors.

Types of Power Centers

Some renovations of shopping malls include tearing down the old buildings and putting up a brand new
power center. However, some power centers are created by the addition of outside shopping areas to
existing malls. This can include the buildout of buildings adjacent to the mall, such as strip mall-style
buildings and big box stores.

Examples:

Commercial real estate is property used for business purposes rather than as a living space. It includes
offices, industrial units, rentals, and retail. more

A co-tenancy clause in retail lease contracts allows tenants to reduce their rent if key tenants or a
certain number of tenants leave the retail space. more

A leasehold improvement is an alteration made to a rental premises in order to customize it for the
specific needs of a tenant. more

Foot traffic is the presence and movement of people walking around in a particular space. It is important
to many types of businesses, particularly retail establishments, as higher foot traffic can lead to higher
sales. more

Rent expense is the cost incurred by a business to utilize a property as an office, factory, storage, retail
space, or general use space.

ECONOMIC CENTER

By MATTHEW JOHNSTON Updated December 19, 2023

What is an economic Centre?

A centrally planned economy or a command economy is one where the price and allocation of
resources, goods and services is determined by the government rather than autonomous agents as it is
in a free market economy.

A financial centre (financial center in American English) or financial hub is a location with a significant
concentration of participants in banking, asset management, insurance, and financial markets, with
venues and supporting services for these activities to take place.
A dominant global financial center has international connectedness, cultural and educational diversity,
and expertise across the full range of financial products and services. We walk you through the top
three, New York, London, and Singapore, as ranked in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI). All were
recognized for their robust financial institutions, trusted regulatory channels, skilled workforce,
educational and research resources, and first-rate infrastructure.

The index, updated every six months by the Z/Yen Group, a London-based commercial think tank, draws
on data from the United Nation's ICT Development Index, the World Economic Forum's Networked
Readiness Index, and the World Bank's ratings on government effectiveness, among 151 other metrics
and survey data.

1. New York

From its origins as the U.S.’s first federal capital to its present status as a financial linchpin, New York has
been the home to the country’s major financial markets since the NYSE opened in 1792. Today, Wall
Street in Lower Manhattan is the world’s most important financial district, with the street a synonym for
global finance. Midtown Manhattan, meanwhile, houses the headquarters of many of the most
significant investment banks, hedge funds, and law firms.

Listed first in the Global Financial Centres Index and the world’s wealthiest city, New York’s financial
dominance is symbolized by Wall Street, the enduring global symbol for finance.

Home to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, the first and second largest stock exchanges
by market capitalization (about 25.2 and 20.6 trillion as of late 2023, respectively), and headquarters for
financial giants like JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Citigroup Inc., the city has an unrivaled concentration of
financial power and influence.

It’s also the site of many of the most powerful investment banks, such as Goldman Sachs and Morgan
Stanley, and the city’s a leading player in asset management, foreign exchange, financial technology,
and private equity.

2. London

London and New York have previously swapped first and second place on the list, though that appears
less likely since Brexit.

London is home to the Bank of England, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious central banks.
The London Stock Exchange is among the world’s top five stock exchanges (it lost and regained its title
as being the largest in Europe), the city has one of the world’s largest banking sectors, and it’s the site of
the London Bullion Market, the world’s largest for gold and silver bullion trading.

In the GFCI financial competitiveness categories, London ranked second across the board for its
business environment, human capital, infrastructure, financial sector development, and reputation.
Brexit is expected to continue to substantially impact the U.K. and London’s traditional places as one of
the most important financial centers. The move out of the EU meant London firms lost so-called
“passporting rights,” the ability to operate freely in the EU without needing separate licenses. Some
financial institutions have relocated all or parts of their operations from London to other EU financial
centers like Frankfurt, Paris, and Dublin to keep their direct access to the EU market.

London’s financial sector has also traditionally benefited from its ability to attract talent from across
Europe. Despite more bureaucratic hurdles and other changes post-Brexit, the lure of London and its
cultural and global scene still makes the city a sure bet in continuing to recruit from among the brightest
and best workers from the EU and beyond.

The U.S. had the most financial centers in the index, with New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles,
Washington D.C., and Chicago in the top 10.

3. Singapore

Despite its geographic size and lack of available resources, Singapore, a small island nation in Southeast
Asia, is a major financial center. Singapore’s financial markets are some of the most important for
trading in chemicals, refined petroleum, and electronics.

A stable regulatory and legal framework supports Singapore’s capital markets. As a tax haven, Singapore
brings in considerable capital in the insurance, wealth management, and private banking industries,
especially since it doesn’t have a tax on capital gains.

The city-state’s professionals are highly educated, specialized, and versatile, especially in tech. Workers
with Chinese, Malay, and Indian origins are proficient in English and several regional languages, a major
point in its favor when seeking to access Asia’s markets.

Why Does the US Have So Many Cities Ranked Highly as Global Financial Centers?

The U.S. takes up half the top-10-ranked financial centers in the GFCI because of its large, diverse
economy, and the momentous role it plays in global financial markets.

For example, the dollar is the world's leading reserve currency. The U.S. also has an advanced
infrastructure, a robust legal and regulatory framework, and financial and technological companies
among the world's best in innovation. Cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco each have unique
strengths: New York with its stock exchanges and banking institutions, Chicago with its futures and
commodities markets, and San Francisco with its proximity to Silicon Valley and power in fintech.

What Cities Were Historically Important Financial Centers?

Historically, cities like Venice and Amsterdam were the preeminent financial centers. During the
Renaissance, Venice was pivotal in the development of the European model of international finance and
trade. Amsterdam, in the 17th century, was instrumental in laying the foundations for modern financial
systems, including the establishment of the first stock exchange. Their decline was due to diverse factors
like political shifts, military conflicts, and the rise of new economic and colonial powers, which shifted
the focus to cities like London and New York.

What are the top 5 financial centers in the world?

The top global financial cities are New York City, London, Singapore, Hong Kong, and San Francisco, as
determined by the GFCI 34 rankings. Other important financial centers around the world include
Shanghai, Frankfurt, Zurich, Tokyo, and Chicago.

Where is the economic center of the world?

Today, the world's economic center of gravity is firmly planted in Asia. China, the world's second-largest
economy and a manufacturing powerhouse, holds immense sway. With its huge population and growing
middle class, India is another key player.Feb 7, 2024

New York City

New York, ranked first in the Global Financial Centres Index, is frequently regarded as the world's
preeminent financial center. It also consistently ranks as the world's wealthiest.

What are religious Centres?

Temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues are examples of structures created for worship. A
monastery may serve both to house those belonging to religious orders and as a place of worship for
visitors.

Examples of Religious Centers

Religious Centers: Religious centers are among the most important cultural institutions for the
observant members of the Muslim Iranian community.

During a postmortem analysis, improvement for fault reaction to increase fault tolerance as well as
improvement for tactical options to increase capability for situation management can be identified and
transferred to defect management.

Community and Religious Centers: Announcements and Q&A sessions will be conducted at all local
community centers, including: Parks, Boys & Girls clubs, community farmers markets, and
churches/temples to educate the community about the new available school option that is available to
all students of the neighborhood without an application process.

Unit IIIPilgrimage Tourism: meaning and nature, Popular Religious Centers: Hindu- Char Dham, jyotriling,
Mathura,Vrindavana,Varanasi, Buddhist- Lumbini, Bodhgaya,sarnath,sanchi, Jain- Kashi, Girnar, Mt Abu,
Sikh- Amritsar, Patna, Nanded, Muslim: Jama Masjid, Ajmer Sharif, Fatehpur Sikri, Christian-Churches of
Goa and Kerala.

What are learning centers and examples?

Learning centers are student centered, engaging activities which are also self-checking and self-
selecting. The activities are used to focus on a set of skills and deepen the students' knowledge and
abilities in that area. Students can work alone, in pairs, or in small groups.

What is Educational Centers?

Space where human beings attend to learn. The concept can make mention of the building itself, the
learning that takes place in it, the methodology used by the teacher, or the group of teachers in an
institution. Primary schools, High Schools and Universities are examples of educational centers.

greatest ancient cities

When we think of the Ancient World, our minds are drawn to the mighty ancient cities at the heart of
great empires and cultured civilizations. Legendary urban centers like Babylon, Nineveh, Persepolis,
Athens, and Rome all shaped the course of history in their own way. Some were the seat of powerful
empires that ruled the known world. Others, like Carthage, had tragic falls that are seared into our
memory. One metropolis, Athens, even laid the very foundations of Western culture itself. Here are nine
of the greatest cities of the Ancient world.

1. Memphis: One of Egypt’s Most Important Ancient Cities

One of Egypt’s oldest and most important ancient cities, Memphis, was the capital of the Old Kingdom.
Memphis occupied a prominent position at the beginning of the Nile Valley and is close to the pyramid
at Giza and the necropolis at Saqqara. Such was the symbolism of Memphis that Pharaohs throughout
Egypt’s long history would be crowned in the city.

Memphis was one of several major cities expanded by the great Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th
Century BC. The most important monument in the city was the Temple of Ptah, one of the oldest
Egyptian gods. Despite being superseded as the capital by cities such as Thebes, Memphis was still
hugely significant as a cultural and religious metropolis.

When the Assyrians invaded Egypt in 671 BC, Memphis was razed to the ground twice. But the city was
rapidly rebuilt due to its religious importance even though Egypt continued to be subjugated by foreign
powers. In 525 BC, the Achaemenid Persian king Cambyses II captured Memphis, which became the
capital of the Persian satrapy of Egypt.

In 331 BC, Alexander the Great was crowned Pharaoh at Memphis after seizing Egypt from the Persians.
After he died, Alexander was entombed at Memphis, and one of his commanders, Ptolemy, established
the Ptolemaic Dynasty.

In 196 BC, Ptolemy V issued a decree, which was transcribed onto a tablet in three languages by scribes
at Memphis. This was the Rosetta Stone, one of the most important archaeological discoveries in human
history.

2. Thebes: Mausoleum of the Great Pharaohs

Thebes eventually replaced Memphis as the capital of ancient Egypt, becoming one of the most
powerful ancient cities in the world. As early as 3200 BC, Thebes was an incredibly important city due to
its worship of Amon, one of Egypt’s most prominent gods. In around 2055 BC, a Theban aristocrat
named Mentuhotep II conquered and united Egypt, moving the capital to Thebes.

When Mentuhotep II took over, he began to increase the grandeur of Thebes. The massive Temple of
Karnak was one of Thebes’ most breathtaking monuments and has never been surpassed as the world’s
largest religious structure. Thebes was displaced as the capital by the controversial Pharaoh Akhenaten
in 1345 BC but was restored by his famous son Tutankhamun.

The Great Columns at Karnak, via University of Memphis

As some of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs ruled from Thebes, a vast necropolis began to form on the
western bank of the Nile – the Valley of the Kings. The mortuary complexes also included those of
Ramesses II as well as the huge mausoleum of Queen Hatshepsut. The city itself hugged the eastern
bank, becoming famous for its beautiful buildings and temples. At its height, Thebes probably contained
around 80,000 people.

Thebes was sacked by the Assyrian king Ashurbanipal in 663 BC during his invasion of Egypt. He had the
city rebuilt, and it continued to be one of Egypt’s most important cities. But in the 1st Century AD, the
Romans arrived and destroyed Thebes, leaving the once-great city a ruined husk.

3. Nineveh: Infamous Bastion of the Assyrians

Under the Neo-Assyrian empire, Nineveh became one of the most famous ancient cities in
Mesopotamia. During the early periods of Assyrian rule, the city sprawled across the east bank of the
River Tigris and was a wealthy, important urban center.

King Sennacherib made Nineveh the Assyrian capital in 705 BC and expanded the city. 15 monumental
fortified gates were built to protect the city, which also boasted advanced infrastructure such as
aqueducts. As the empire reached its peak, wealth and slaves flooded into Nineveh.

But it was Sennacherib’s most ambitious project that most epitomized the grandeur of the capital – the
“Palace Without Rival”, also known as the Southwest Palace. Each of the palace’s 80 rooms was
decorated with intricate carvings depicting Sennacherib’s triumphs and scenes illustrating Assyrian life.
Statues of winged lions with human heads, also known as “lamassu”, guarded the palace’s doorways.

Sennacherib’s grandson, Ashurbanipal, devoted even more attention to the city. He built an immense
library complex, where he hoped to collate writings from across Mesopotamia. Ashurbanipal’s collection
may have boasted as many as 30,000 clay tablets. Scholars were sent to scour Assyrian lands, collecting
various cuneiform texts for the library.

But after Ashurbanipal’s death, Assyria’s brutally oppressed subjects seized their chance for revenge. A
coalition of Babylonians, Medes, and Persians destroyed Nineveh in 612 BC. Most of the survivors were
massacred and the city was torched, bringing an end to Assyrian rule.
4. Babylon: The Jewel of Mesopotamia’s Ancient Cities

Straddling both banks of the Euphrates, Babylon is one of the most legendary ancient cities in history.
After centuries of harsh rule under the Assyrians, Babylon led a coalition that overthrew their brutal
rulers in 612 BC.

This heralded a golden age that saw Babylon’s greatest architect, Nebuchadnezzar II, turn the city into
an almost mythical metropolis. At its height, three square miles of urban sprawl was believed to be
contained within Babylon’s monumental walls. Nebuchadnezzar expanded these mighty fortifications
and constructed the famous Ishtar Gate, a vibrant portal made out of dazzling blue tiles.

The Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are also believed to have been
built during Nebuchadnezzar’s reign. Babylon’s mighty central ziggurat, the temple of the city’s patron
god Marduk, may have inspired the Bible’s Tower of Babel.

The city also hosted the raucous Akitu New Year festival every year to honor Marduk. The Persian ruler
Cyrus the Great used the celebration as a distraction to conquer the city in 539 BC but allowed Babylon
to retain its prestige and treated the city with admiration. However, Xerxes I was not so respectful,
razing Babylon in 485 BC as punishment for revolting against him.

Some 150 years later, Alexander the Great brought the Achaemenid Empire to its knees and declared
that Babylon was not to be harmed. The ancient city’s mystique outlived its physical presence, and after
Alexander’s death, Babylon gradually became abandoned.

5. Athens: The Birthplace of Western Civilisation

Among all ancient cities, Athens alone can be considered the birthplace of Western culture. Democracy,
history, and philosophy all flourished under the shadow of the Acropolis.

After being ruled by aristocrats and tyrants for centuries, the Athenians revolted in 510 BC. The
statesman Cleisthenes established the world’s earliest-known democracy. All of the free men of Athens
had a say in the government of the city.

The father of Western philosophy, Socrates, taught his students to question everything. He was forced
to take poison after being accused of corrupting the city’s youth. But Socrates’ ideas endured through
his pupil, Plato.

Xerxes I razed Athens twice during his invasion of Greece in 480 BC but was defeated by an alliance of
Greek city-states led by Athens and Sparta. The great statesman Pericles then oversaw a grand
rebuilding of the Acropolis on the rocky plateau overlooking the city. Contained within was the
Parthenon, an impressive temple dedicated to Athena.

The center of Athens was the Agora, a civic square, and marketplace. Commodities such as silver, wine,
and olives were abundant in Attica’s surrounding lands and powered Athens’ rise to prominence.
Athens then formed a coalition with several other city-states called the Delian League. Expanded across
the Aegean by Pericles and generals such as Cimon, the Delian League was a vessel for Athenian power
for almost 75 years.

But during the Peloponnesian War, Athens was toppled by Sparta, who became Greece’s dominant city-
state until Athens’ resurgence following the Corinthian War.

6. Persepolis: The Opulent Monument of Achaemenid Persia

At its height, the Achaemenid Persian Empire was an immense superpower that dominated much of
Mesopotamia and Asia Minor. To suit such a powerful civilization, the Persian king Darius the Great
began construction on a new capital at Persepolis in 518 BC.

While the vast Achaemenid administration continued to be run from other ancient cities such as Susa,
Persepolis became the center of royal power. Darius constructed a new palace as well as a great
apadana, an entrance hall used for hosting dignitaries. Bas-reliefs that still survive today depict visitors
from across the empire arriving to pay homage to the King of Kings.

After Darius’ death, his successors added even more grand buildings to the complex. His son, Xerxes I,
built his own palace, a treasury, and the famous Gate of All Nations. Around these impressive projects,
fields spread out across the surrounding fertile land, while a bazaar sold goods gathered from all across
the empire.

But Persepolis’ splendor was not to last. When Alexander the Great invaded the Achaemenid Empire in
331 BC, he defeated the Persian king Darius III. Alexander burned Persepolis to the ground, allegedly
giving the order to ransack the city while drunk. The Achaemenid Empire died in the flames engulfing its
greatest city.

7. Alexandria: The Shining Legacy of Alexander the Great

In 331 BC, Alexander the Great invaded the Achaemenid Persian empire. After liberating Egypt, the
young general founded a new city, Alexandria. He designed the plans for the city himself before leaving
to continue his campaign. When Alexander died in 323 BC, Egypt was claimed by Ptolemy with
Alexandria as his capital.

The new city flourished, becoming the largest metropolis in the world. Ptolemy and his sons began
construction on the Great Library of Alexandria, where hundreds of scholars collected knowledge from
across the known world. Alexandria became a haven for scholars, and great minds like Archimedes,
Euclid, and Heron are believed to have studied there.

This jewel among ancient cities was also home to the towering Lighthouse of Alexandria, considered to
be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The lighthouse was finished sometime around 250
BC and stood for almost 1600 years. It may have been as tall as 140 meters, guiding ships safely into
Alexandria’s harbor.
Alexandria continued as a prominent Mediterranean port until a series of Roman civil wars spread to
Egypt. After the death of his rival Pompey, Julius Caesar declared martial law in Alexandria. He deposed
Ptolemy XIII and installed Cleopatra on the throne.

After Caesar was murdered in 44 BC, the Roman general Marc Anthony ruled with Cleopatra as they
opposed Caesar’s successor Octavian. Following the Battle of Actium, Anthony and Cleopatra committed
suicide. Now ruling as Emperor Augustus, Octavian rebuilt Alexandria as the center of Roman power in
Egypt.

8. Carthage: Trading Hub of the Mediterranean World

Before clashing with the Romans, Carthage was one of the wealthiest ancient cities in the
Mediterranean and the center of a maritime trading empire. Phoenician sailors, likely from the powerful
city-state of Tyre, founded the city in 814 BC.

Carthaginian traders spread across the seas, establishing colonies in Sicily, Spain, and the rest of the
North African coast. Ebony, ivory, and gold flowed through Carthage from the African interior.
Carthaginian merchants also traded in salt, spices, furs, and expensive purple Phoenician dyes made
from murex seashells.

Carthage’s status as a center of trade was made possible by its twin harbors. The rectangular outer
harbor was used strictly for trading vessels, protected by a long sea wall. The circular inner harbor
housed Carthage’s mighty navy, with berths for 220 warships.

The Byrsa hill, which held an immense citadel, overlooked the harbor. The city’s residential
neighborhoods were spread out below.

Carthage was ruled by two elected ruling magistrates called suffetes, who consulted the Senate for
advice. One suffete presided over domestic government, while the other held command over the
Carthaginian army and its mercenary allies.

Carthage dominated the Mediterranean for centuries. But during the three Punic Wars, Carthage fought
against the emerging might of Rome. After over a century of bitter fighting, the Romans besieged
Carthage in 149 BC.

After two years, the Romans finally broke through. They ransacked the city and massacred or enslaved
the surviving civilians. Carthage was utterly destroyed, and Rome finally became the dominant power in
the Mediterranean.

9. Rome: The Greatest of all Ancient Cities

The seat of one of the greatest empires in history, Rome is arguably the most famous of all ancient
cities. The city was founded in the 8th century BC and gradually expanded across the Seven Hills of
Rome. Initially ruled by kings, Rome became a republic in 509 BC. Guided by the Senate, Rome expanded
its territory for nearly 500 years.
After a power struggle following Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC, the Republic was replaced by the
Roman Empire under the first emperor Augustus. At its greatest extent in 117 AD, the Roman Empire
encompassed most of Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, and Mesopotamia.

The Forum was the civic center of the city, containing the Senate house and administrative buildings. To
honor Rome’s military conquests, great generals received spectacular triumphs that marched down the
Sacra Via. Gladiatorial contests were held in the iconic Colosseum, while 150,000 spectators could enjoy
chariot racing at the Circus Maximus.

Rome encompassed around one million inhabitants and was deeply divided between rich and poor
despite its power and wealth. While the wealthy lounged in palatial villas, the poor lived in sprawling
slums.

Throughout its long history, Rome endured civil wars, plagues, and other disasters. In 64 AD a great fire
swept across Rome. Hundreds died and ten of Rome’s 14 districts were destroyed.

As its power declined in the 5th Century AD, Rome was sacked by various barbarian groups and its
population ebbed away. The Western Roman Empire collapsed in 476 AD.

References:

Abigail López-Alcarria (University of Granada, Spain), José Gutiérrez-Pérez (University of Granada,

Spain), Pablo Rodríguez-Díaz (University of Granada, Spain), and Diego-Pablo Ruiz-Padillo (University of
Granada, Spain)

Handbook of Research on Using Disruptive Methodologies and Game-Based Learning to Foster

Transversal Skills

MATTHEW JOHNSTON Updated December 19, 2023.ECONOMIC CENTER

JAMES CHEN (2021).Power Center: What it Means, How it Works, Types

Investopedia

World's Economic Center of Gravity Is Shifting East - LinkedIn.https://www.linkedin.com › pulse

Manoj Joshi (2016).Top 10 maps showing world’s oldest cities

LUIS JOSHUA GUTIERREZ, DAN HAMMILL, SAMUEL HEANEY, +39.9K MORE(JUN 15, 2022)