Top 7 Oldest Doors In The World

The history of doors dates back thousands of years, making them one of the most ancient and enduring aspects of human architecture. The oldest doors known to us were functional and symbolic, embodying the transition between spaces, cultures, and beliefs. Let's explore the evolution of doors through time.

From ancient civilizations to medieval fortresses, old doors have been more than just entrances and exits; they encapsulate the essence of an era, echoing with whispers of the people who walked through them and the worlds they connected.

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Here we would like to share with you the top 7 oldest doors in the world and endure the allure of these remarkable portals to the past.

7. Romanesque Doors (~1,100 Years Old)

Emerging in the 10th century and reaching its peak during the 11th and 12th centuries, Romanesque architecture was marked by its robust and massive forms, characterized by thick walls, round arches, and barrel vaults. It is known to be one of the oldest doors in the world.

Romanesque doors often feature rounded arches that reflect the combination influence of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottonian architecture. The doors are typically surrounded by ornate door frames, known as archivolts, which are adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs.

The most captivating feature of Romanesque doors is the detailed sculptural work that adorns them. These sculptures often depict scenes from the Bible, the life of Christ, and the lives of saints.

6. Itakarado Doors (~1,300 Years Old)

Credit: JAANUS

The name "Itakarado" itself holds significance, as it translates to "wood-covered doors." These doors are a prime example of the art of wood sculpture and carving that flourished during the Heian period.

Adorned with delicate floral and plant motifs, the Itakarado Doors exude a sense of harmony with the natural world, reflecting the deep connection between spirituality and nature in Japanese culture.

These doors, positioned at the entrance of the repository, not only safeguard the treasures within but also symbolize the profound respect for heritage and the continuity of cultural traditions. The earliest Itakarado Door would be the one found in an old Buddhist temple in Horyuji.

5. Chinese Foot Sensor Door (~1,400 Years Old)

The Chinese Foot Sensor Door stands as a modern testament to the fusion of traditional cultural practices and cutting-edge technology. Rooted in the ancient Chinese tradition of respecting cleanliness and hygiene, the Foot Sensor Door serves as a response to the cultural practice of removing one's shoes before entering a home or certain establishments.

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For instance, one particular door that was crafted during the seventh century in China under the guidance of Emperor Yang of Sui featured an innovative foot sensor mechanism that effortlessly swung it open, granting access to the imperial library for visiting dignitaries.

Beyond its functional capabilities, the Chinese Foot Sensor Door serves as a representation of China's forward-thinking approach to technological integration.

4. Pantheon Doors (~1,800 Years Old)

The Pantheon, completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD, features a portico with three sets of magnificent bronze doors. These doors have survived the test of time and continue to fascinate visitors with their sheer scale and intricate design. 

Each door measures over 23 feet in height and 8.5 feet in width, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Roman engineers. Crafted from bronze, they are adorned with detailed relief panels that depict various scenes from Roman mythology and history.

They were designed to pivot smoothly on their hinges, allowing for easy opening and closing despite their massive size. This innovation not only demonstrated the Romans' advanced engineering skills but also showcased their ability to blend aesthetics with practicality.

3. Egyptian Ka Doors (~4,700 Years Old)

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Ka Doors, also known as false doors, hold a unique place in ancient Egyptian funerary practices. Carved into the walls of tombs and temples, these intricately designed structures served as portals through which the ka, the spiritual essence of the deceased, could travel between the realms of the living and the afterlife.

Their significance goes beyond mere architectural elements; they were believed to facilitate the ongoing relationship between the deceased and the world of the living. Ka Doors provide a visual narrative of the individual's life, achievements, and offerings. 

Hieroglyphs, symbols, and scenes depicting various aspects of daily life, religious rituals, and interactions with the gods are meticulously etched onto these doors. It is known to be the oldest door of ancient Egyptians.

2. Neolithic Wooden Door (~5,000 Years Old)

The discovery of a Neolithic wooden door in 2010 estimated to be around 5000 years old, offers a remarkable glimpse into the distant past, revealing insights into the ingenuity and craftsmanship of our ancient ancestors.

It was believed to be the oldest door in Europe and it could have held symbolic importance, demarcating boundaries between spaces or realms of the living and the spiritual. Through careful analysis, researchers have gained valuable insights into the tools and techniques used by ancient craftsmen to shape and assemble this wooden marvel.

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Based on the findings, the door was likely to have been made somewhere around 3,063 BC.

1. Indian Carved Doors (Unknown)

Credit: Mogul Interior Designs

The Indian carved doors stand as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and artistic heritage of the Indian subcontinent. These doors are not merely functional barriers; they have intricately crafted pieces of art that tell stories of tradition, spirituality, and craftsmanship that have been honed over centuries.

One of the most remarkable features of old Indian carved doors is the intricate woodwork that adorns them. Skilled artisans painstakingly carve intricate patterns, scenes, and symbols onto the doors' surfaces.

Additionally, doors may feature depictions of deities from various religious traditions, such as Hindu gods and goddesses, embodying protection and blessings for those who pass through. The Hindu god Ganesh, who has an elephant head, was often etched into the top of the door.

Despite the exact time frame of when the door was made is unknown, experts believed that it is almost certainly the oldest door ever made in the world.

Source:

• IDN Times

• VIVA

Also read: Top 7 Oldest Temples In The World