Here are the 10 oldest cities in Southeast Asia, along with some of their historical significance:
- Chiang Mai, Thailand: Founded in 1296 AD, Chiang Mai served as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom for centuries, and is known for its historic temples and cultural festivals.
- Hanoi, Vietnam: Founded in 1010 AD, Hanoi has served as the capital of Vietnam for over a thousand years and has played a key role in the country’s history, including as a center of resistance against foreign powers.
- Jakarta, Indonesia: Founded in 397 AD, Jakarta (then known as Sunda Kelapa) was an important trading port and served as the capital of the Dutch East Indies.
- Vientiane, Laos: Founded in the 9th century AD, Vientiane has served as the capital of Laos for centuries and is known for its historic temples and French colonial architecture.
- Yangon, Myanmar: Founded in the 6th century AD, Yangon (then known as Dagon) has played a key role in the history of Myanmar, serving as the capital during several periods and as a center of trade and commerce.
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Founded in the 14th century AD, Phnom Penh has served as the capital of Cambodia since the 15th century and is known for its historic temples, royal palaces, and museums.
- Manila, Philippines: Founded in 1571 AD, Manila served as the capital of the Spanish East Indies and played a key role in the colonization of the Philippines.
- Brunei, Brunei Darussalam: Founded in the 7th century AD, Brunei has a long history as a center of trade and commerce, and served as a powerful sultanate in the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Luang Prabang, Laos: Founded in the 8th century AD, Luang Prabang served as the capital of the Kingdom of Laos and is known for its historic temples and French colonial architecture.
- Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam: Founded in the 14th century AD, Bandar Seri Begawan has served as the capital of Brunei since the 16th century and is known for its historic mosques and palaces.