Europe has a long history dating back thousands of years, and many of its nations have strong political and cultural ties. Through distinctive customs, historic monarchs, and significant legal frameworks, Europe’s oldest nations have influenced the continent’s identity. These countries form the foundation of European civilization, ranging from ancient Celtic and Slavic territories to Greece, the birthplace of democracy. Portugal and France are examples of some of the first long-lasting states because of their early borders and political systems. While nations like Denmark and San Marino have preserved their cultural identities through numerous empires and battles.
The oldest nation in Europe differs according to how “oldest” and “country” are defined.
List of Oldest Countries in Europe
- San Marino
- France
- Denmark
- Austria
- Hungary
- Portugal
- Andorra
- Switzerland
- Monaco
- Spain
1. San Marino
The Most Serene Republic of San Marino, as it is formally called, is the oldest republic in Europe and possibly the entire globe. The history of San Marino dates back to 301 AD, when a poor stonecutter called Marinus sought safety on Mount Titano after being persecuted for his Christian faith by Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Marinus founded a small Christian community here that was dedicated to independence and peace, principles that would later form the core of the republic’s identity.
San Marino has maintained its independence over the years in spite of being surrounded by much more powerful nations, especially Italy. To preserve its independence in the face of invasions, conflicts, and shifting empires, San Marino’s founders deftly handled political alliances and neutral positions. Italian unification attempts in the 19th century preserved San Marino’s status, and even Napoleon respected it by refusing to invade it.
A paradigm of continuity and tradition is San Marino’s distinctive government system, which is founded on laws dating back hundreds of years and is headed by a council of two Captains Regent, each of whom has a six-month term. As it participates in contemporary European politics while proudly preserving its old legacy, San Marino is now a symbol of tenacity and dedication to democratic ideals.
2. France
The history of France, which is frequently regarded as one of the oldest and most powerful nations in Europe, dates back to the early Middle Ages, when King Clovis I’s Frankish Kingdom united most of modern-day France in 481 AD.
The groundwork for the future French state was established by this monarchy. The Carolingian Empire was split by the time of the Treaty of Verdun in 843, and the western part of it eventually became France. France has played an important role in European history since these early times, making substantial contributions to the political, philosophical, and cultural environment of the continent.
The French monarchy established one of the earliest centralized nations in Europe throughout the Middle Ages by consolidating power. Through strategic alliances, marriages, and territorial conquests, France was able to increase its power throughout Europe thanks to its capable leadership. From art and philosophy to the revolutionary concepts of liberty and democracy, France’s distinctive identity was shaped by the cultural and intellectual contributions of the Capetian, Valois, and Bourbon dynasties.
The country was drastically changed by the French Revolution in 1789, becoming a republic that promoted principles that would be adopted all across the world. France proudly maintains its medieval heritage while influencing current European and international politics, and it continues to be a sign of cultural refinement, political might, and long historical legacy.
3. Denmark
One of the oldest continuously existing kingdoms in Europe, Denmark’s history dates back to the eighth century, during the Viking Age.
The first known king of Denmark was Gorm the Old, who established the current royal bloodline in the 10th century, according to the oldest historical documents. The basis for a long-lasting cultural and political identity was laid by Gorm’s son Harald Bluetooth, who united several Viking tribes to extend the realm and bring Christianity to Denmark. Harald created the Jelling Stones, which are regarded as the Danish nation’s “birth certificate” and represent Denmark’s conversion to Christianity.
Denmark developed into a major Scandinavian power throughout the Middle Ages, influencing nearby nations like Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. It was significant to the Kalmar Union (1397–1523), a political union of Scandinavian countries ruled by a single king that had a lasting impact on Nordic collaboration. Denmark was able to thrive economically due to its placement along trade routes, especially during the Hanseatic League era.
As one of the longest continuously operating monarchies in the world, Denmark strikes a balance between history and modernity, upholding its historical foundations while welcoming innovation. As one of Europe’s first nation-states, Denmark continues to be a pillar of Scandinavian culture and a well-known representation of tenacity, democracy, and social welfare throughout the continent.
4. Austria
Austria is a Central European nation with a rich history that dates back more than a thousand years to the Carolingian Empire.
Austria’s early status as a separate province within the Holy Roman Empire was marked by the appearance of its name, “Ostarrichi” (meaning “Eastern Realm”), in a document from 996 AD. Austria’s development as a strong duchy under the Babenberg family in the 12th century and its subsequent transfer to Habsburg dominance in the 13th century—a dynasty that would control Central Europe for centuries—were made possible by this early foundation.
Austria emerged one of the most powerful nations in Europe under the Habsburgs, serving as the center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and influencing politics, culture, and the military on a large scale throughout the continent. The Habsburgs established a legacy that is still present in Austria’s thriving cultural landscape today by transforming Vienna into a hub for the arts, music, and intellectual pursuits. Austria’s reputation as a European cultural powerhouse was cemented when philosophers, singers, and artists were drawn to the country by its stability and sound administration.
Austria became an autonomous republic after the Austro-Hungarian Empire broke apart following World War I, reinventing its identity while retaining its rich cultural legacy. Austria is still praised today for its historical accomplishments, which range from philosophy to music and architecture, and it serves as a reminder of the imperial history of Central Europe.
5. Hungary
One of the oldest continuously existing countries in Europe, Hungary was founded in 1000 AD with the crowning of King Stephen I.
Its rich history is intricately linked to the evolution of Central Europe. King Stephen, who was subsequently declared Saint Stephen, brought the Magyar tribes together, brought Christianity to the realm, and established the framework for Hungary’s legal system and statehood. After being acknowledged by the Pope as a separate Christian kingdom, Hungary quickly became a major force and the start of a lasting sense of national identity.
Hungary grew in size and strength during the Middle Ages, taking advantage of its advantageous location at the meeting point of the East and the West. Hungary tenaciously preserved its unique legacy by retaining its political and cultural institutions in the face of Mongol invasions in the 13th century and Ottoman expansion later on. After being under Ottoman rule, Hungary played a significant role in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which ruled over Europe until the end of World War I.
Despite the difficulties of the 20th century, Hungary’s patriotism and feeling of identity endured. Hungary’s architecture, language, and customs now all exhibit a fusion of Eastern and Western elements. Hungary, which is well-known for its distinctive language, historic towns like Budapest, and thriving cultural scene, continues to celebrate its ancient roots and its thousand-year-old legacy as a key component of Europe’s historical landscape.
6. Portugal
Portugal is frequently regarded as one of Europe’s oldest nations with permanent boundaries, having gained independence in 1139.
After conquering the Moors and seceding from the Kingdom of León, Afonso Henriques proclaimed himself the first King of Portugal in the 12th century, marking the beginning of its history. Early in European history, Portugal’s path as a separate nation-state was established by the Treaty of Zamora in 1143, which formally acknowledged its sovereignty.
Portugal began its Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, establishing a vast Portuguese Empire and establishing international marine routes that advanced global geography knowledge. Portugal became a major maritime power when famous explorers like Vasco da Gama paved the way to India, Africa, and the Americas. Lisbon became one of Europe’s major cities and cultural hubs as a result of the wealth and influence that this period of discovery provided.
7. Andorra
Andorra is one of Europe’s oldest microstates, situated in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Charlemagne established Andorra as a protectorate by awarding the Andorran people a charter in exchange for their assistance in battling the Moors.
In 1278, the Count of Foix and the Bishop of Urgell signed the Paréage, a co-sovereignty agreement that established Andorra as a jointly managed institution, giving this small province its own political character. Andorra’s political structure still reflects this setup, making it one of the oldest continuous government systems in the world.
Andorra’s rugged landscape and dual sovereignty system, which offered stability and independence, kept it comparatively remote for generations. Originally founded on agriculture and pastoralism, Andorra’s economy changed throughout time, particularly in the 20th century, when its tax-free status made it a popular destination for tourists and shoppers.
While introducing modernization, Andorra maintains its distinctive history and traditions today. With its unique combination of Romanesque cathedrals, picturesque scenery, and a unique political system, it is an intriguing illustration of a European microstate that has maintained its independence and individuality over the ages while retaining one of the continent’s oldest political structures.
8. Switzerland
One of the oldest countries in Europe, Switzerland dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its distinct system of neutrality and direct democracy.
The Federal Charter was established in 1291 by the three Alpine villages of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, who agreed to defend one another against outside challenges, especially those posed by the Habsburg Empire. The beginning of Switzerland’s enduring independence and unity is commemorated by this agreement, which is known as the country’s foundation. This confederation grew over time as other areas joined, becoming a cooperative partnership that prioritized autonomy and self-governance—qualities that still characterize Switzerland today.
A unique cultural fusion of German, French, Italian, and Romansh roots resulted from Switzerland’s location at the intersection of Western Europe, each of which added to the country’s varied linguistic and cultural environment. Switzerland notably adopted a posture of neutrality that has maintained it out of major disputes since the 19th century, despite religious tensions and outside influences.
Switzerland firmly established itself as a federal state in 1848 with a constitution that prioritized democratic administration and autonomy based in cantons.
9. Monaco
Monaco is a small principality on the Mediterranean coast that has maintained its independence since 1297.
This year saw the establishment of the Grimaldi family’s long-lasting control over Monaco when François Grimaldi, dressed as a monk, took control of the citadel. One of the longest-reigning dynasties in the world and a representation of continuity in European history, Monaco has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi ever since.
Monaco was able to maintain its independence over decades of European strife, frequently by forming strategic partnerships with more powerful nations, especially France. Monaco’s sovereignty was legally acknowledged by the 1641 Treaty of Péronne, which it signed with France. The principality has retained this position during several European political shifts. Despite its modest size, Monaco rose to fame as a glitzy travel destination in the 19th century when the Monte Carlo Casino opened, drawing affluent tourists and nobles from all over the world.
10. Spain
Spain is the 10th oldest nation in Europe, having a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years.
Long before the Roman invasion in the second century BC, when the Roman Empire gained significant influence over the area, the Iberian Peninsula was home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Celts and Iberians. When Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, two Catholic monarchs, united their kingdoms by marriage in the late 15th century and completed the Reconquista in 1492, which drove the Moors out of Granada, Spain’s current political identity started to take shape.
Spain’s Golden Age, which was defined by exploration, colonialism, and cultural prosperity, began with its union. Spanish explorers like Christopher Columbus set out on expeditions that made Spain a major world power, bringing with them money and huge possessions abroad. The Spanish Empire rose to prominence in Europe throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, impacting religion, politics, and society.
A table Comparison of the Oldest Countries in Europe
| Rank | Country | Independence Year |
| 1 | San Marino | 301 |
| 2 | France | 843 |
| 3 | Denmark | 965 |
| 4 | Austria | 976 |
| 5 | Hungary | 1001 |
| 6 | Portugal | 1143 |
| 7 | Andorra | 1278 |
| 8 | Switzerland | 1291 |
| 9 | Monaci | 1419 |
| 10 | Spain | 1500 |
Conclusion
Europe’s oldest nations, including France, Denmark, Austria, and San Marino, highlight the continent’s lasting identities and rich historical tapestry. France, with its medieval origins, has greatly influenced European politics and culture, while San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, represents a special fusion of heritage and independence.
Denmark’s ongoing monarchy, which dates back to the Viking Age, is an example of stability and tenacity. Austria has impacted art, politics, and diplomacy due to its historical significance in Central Europe. Collectively, these countries demonstrate the development of European sovereignty, maintaining their traditions and cultural legacies while embracing modernity, each making a distinct historical contribution to the continent.
FAQs
What Are the Top 10 Oldest Countries in Europe?
- San Marino
- France
- Denmark
- Austria
- Hungary
- Portugal
- Andorra
- Switzerland
- Monaco
- Spain
Which is the Oldest Country in Europe?
San Marino is the oldest republic in Europe and possibly the entire globe. The history of San Marino dates back to 301 AD.
How Old is Switzerland?
Switzerland dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its distinct system of neutrality and direct democracy.
Which Nation is the Poorest in Europe?
Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe and has the lowest GDP per capita, even though it has the fastest GDP growth rate in the continent.
Which European Nation Has the Strongest Economy?
Since 1980, even before West and East Germany were reunited, Germany’s economy has continuously been the strongest in Europe.
