Tags: oldest, city, oldest city, timeless, civilizations, southeast asia, indonesia, vietnam, malaysia, thailand, cambodia, laos
Southeast Asia is not only known for its tropical beauty, but also as a region rich in cultural and historical legacies. Some cities here have been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years, standing as vibrant proof of human civilization through changing eras.
According to Seasia Stats, here are the 10 oldest continuously inhabited cities in Southeast Asia, places where life has never ceased and history lives on.
1. Hanoi, Vietnam – Since 257 BC (Âu Lạc)
Hanoi is recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Southeast Asia. Originating during the Âu Lạc kingdom in 257 BC, Hanoi has survived Chinese rule, feudal dynasties, French colonization, and revolutionary wars.
Today, it stands as the capital of Vietnam, rich in colonial architecture, ancient temples, and modern dynamism.
2. Klang, Malaysia – Since 200 BC (Prehistoric Malaysia)
Located in Selangor, Klang has been inhabited since 200 BC, based on historical and archaeological records.
As one of the earliest trading hubs in Peninsular Malaysia, it played a crucial role in the maritime networks of ancient Hindu-Buddhist polities and the later Malay Sultanates.
3. Huế, Vietnam – Since 1st Century (Lâm Ấp)
Formerly the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Huế has roots going back to Lâm Ấp in the 1st century.
It is a spiritual and historical center, with its royal complex designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Pyay, Myanmar – Since 638 AD (Pyu City-States)
Located in the Bago Region, Pyay was once a major city of the Pyu civilization, which flourished in the 7th century.
Today, it remains an important archaeological site showcasing ancient stupas and city ruins.
5. Palembang, Indonesia – Since 638 AD (Srivijaya)
Palembang served as the capital of the Srivijaya Empire, one of Southeast Asia’s greatest maritime kingdoms.
Known for its Buddhist learning centers and global trade connections, Palembang has remained continuously inhabited for over 1,300 years.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos – Since 698 AD (Muang Sua)
Before becoming part of the Lan Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang was known as Muang Sua and has been inhabited since the 7th century.
Its historical and spiritual legacy can be felt in its Buddhist temples and French-Indochinese architecture.
7. Yogyakarta, Indonesia – Since 732 AD (Mataram Kingdom)
Yogyakarta has been central to Javanese civilization since the Mataram Kingdom.
It remains a stronghold of classical Javanese culture, royal tradition, and education—holding a special administrative status in Indonesia.
8. Malang, Indonesia – Since 740 AD (Kanjuruhan Kingdom)
Malang, once the heart of the Kanjuruhan Kingdom, is known for its ancient temples and relics.
Today, it thrives as a modern city while preserving its cultural and historical roots.
9. Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand – Since 775 AD (Tambralinga)
This southern Thai city once served as the capital of the Tambralinga kingdom, a critical port city in the maritime trade route.
The legacy of Hindu-Buddhist culture lives on in its iconic temples like Wat Phra Mahathat.
10. Siem Reap, Cambodia – Since 801 AD (Khmer Empire)
Siem Reap is globally known for its proximity to Angkor Wat, but the region has been inhabited since at least the 9th century as part of the Khmer Empire.
Its ancient heritage is one of the most iconic in Southeast Asia.
Historical Reflection: Living Legacies Across the Region
These cities are not just ancient, they are living testimonies of Southeast Asia’s resilience and continuity.
While debates about definitions of "city" or "continuous habitation" persist, the cultural and historical significance of these cities remains indisputable.
