Four Great Megacities of the Ancient World

In the tapestry of ancient civilizations, four megacities stand out as beacons of human ingenuity and urban splendor. Chang'an in China, the sprawling capital of the Tang Dynasty, was a cosmopolitan hub of trade and culture, renowned for its bustling markets, grand palaces, and vibrant street life. Meanwhile, Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire in India, served as a center of political and economic power, its grandeur reflected in its magnificent architecture and thriving intellectual pursuits. In Egypt, Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great, became a beacon of learning and science, home to the renowned Library of Alexandria and a diverse population drawn from across the Mediterranean. Lastly, Rome, the eternal city, was the heart of the Roman Empire, its vast network of roads and aqueducts connecting it to far-flung provinces, while its iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, symbolized its enduring legacy.