32 Ancient Cities That Are Older Than the Pyramids

17. Tell Brak: Mesopotamia’s Urban Giant

Tell Brak in northeastern Syria was one of the largest early urban centers of Mesopotamia, with occupation layers dating back to 6000 BCE. It rivals Uruk in both age and complexity and may have developed urban characteristics independently. The site includes an enigmatic Eye Temple, named for hundreds of alabaster idols with staring eyes—perhaps representing deities or ancestors. With extensive evidence of urban planning, trade, and monumental architecture, Tell Brak reshapes our understanding of how cities emerged and the role of ritual in early state societies.