32 Ancient Cities That Are Older Than the Pyramids

13. Arslantepe: The Forgotten Temple Complex of Anatolia

Located near modern-day Malatya, Turkey, Arslantepe dates back to the 6th millennium BCE and is one of the earliest known examples of state formation in the ancient Near East. The site includes an imposing mudbrick palace with frescoed walls and a temple complex that hints at early centralized authority. Archaeological discoveries suggest Arslantepe played a key role in the development of social hierarchy and bureaucracy. It also yielded the oldest known swords, pointing to the emergence of organized warfare. Often overlooked compared to Mesopotamian or Egyptian sites, Arslantepe’s importance lies in its transitional position between tribal societies and formalized states.