
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.