These ancient houses tell the stories of long-gone cultures, of the families that lived in them and made them a home long before we were born.
Their walls have seen countless generations, witnessed the rise and fall of empires, and hold the memories of people who lived within them in a world very different from ours.
Here's a look at five incredible ancient houses that have survived thousands of years:
1. Mountain habitats of Mesa Verde, USA.
In Colorado, the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde are a testament to the ingenuity of the native Puebloans, who lived in the area from the 6th to the 12th centuries. These houses are built directly into the rocks, providing protection from harsh weather and potential invaders.
The caves were carved into the sandstone, and the structures inside were made of wood and stone. The most famous of these houses is the Cliff Palace, a complex of rooms and courtyards that look almost as if they were carved out of the rock itself.
These houses have stood the test of time, and although they are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they still give us a glimpse of how humans adapted to their environment thousands of years ago.
2. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
While we usually think of the pyramids as tombs for the pharaohs, the pyramids of Giza also housed workers and families who helped build and maintain these great structures. Built around 4,500 years ago, these pyramids, especially the Great Pyramid of Khufu, are the most prominent and enduring symbols of ancient civilization.
Although they were designed for royal burials, mud-brick houses were built by laborers living nearby in the workers' village. These houses, although simple, were well designed to cope with Egypt's hot and dry climate. Many of these homes have been discovered by archaeologists, offering an insight into the lives of the people who helped build one of the world's most famous landmarks.
Located on the Orkney Islands in Scotland, Skara Brae is a prehistoric village dating back to around 3,000 BC. It is one of the best preserved examples of Neolithic life. The houses here were built of stone, with thick walls that helped protect the interior from cold winds and harsh weather. The houses are very well preserved, with furniture such as stone beds and dressers still visible in the houses.
The village was abandoned for unknown reasons, but the structures were sealed and protected, preserving them for future generations.
4. Cave houses of Mitera, Italy
Matera, a city in southern Italy, is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, some of which have been inhabited for over 9,000 years. These houses, carved directly into the limestone rock, are known as “sassis”.
Sasi houses are believed to have been in continuous use for thousands of years, with modern residents turning the caves into homes with running water and electricity. What makes these cave houses so remarkable is their ability to blend ancient techniques with modern life, creating a living history that bridges the past and the present.
5. Adobe Homes of Taos Pueblo, USA
Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, USA is a living community that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Homes here are made of adobe—sun-dried mud and straw—and are multi-story with thick walls that help protect against extreme temperatures. The pueblo is still home to Native American families today, and remains a place of culture and tradition. The adobe buildings have survived so long because of the strong construction techniques used by the Taos people, who have passed down their knowledge of how to build and preserve these homes for generations.
