Throughout history, certain companies have defied the odds, surviving wars, plagues, and the invention of kulhad pizza. Here are five of the oldest companies still operating today, proving that age is just a number—unless you’re cheese.
5. Staffelter Hof (Germany) – Est. 862 AD
While most businesses struggle to survive one economic recession or a mildly negative Yelp review, Staffelter Hof has laughed in the face of collapse for over 1,160 years. Founded back when Vikings were still busy raiding monasteries (talk about bad neighbors), this German winery has been continuously producing wine since 862 AD. That means they’ve survived the Black Plague, countless wars, and more questionable wine trends than you can shake a Riesling at. Staffelter Hof makes today’s hipster microbreweries look about as traditional as your buddy’s avocado toast brunch.
4. St. Peter Stifts Kulinarium (Austria) – Est. 803 AD
Imagine dining in a place that’s been serving meals since the Cholas were in power. Located in Salzburg, Austria, St. Peter Stifts Kulinarium has been dishing out culinary delights since 803 AD. That’s over 1,200 years of schnitzels, strudels, and countless other dishes we can’t pronounce! If walls could talk, these are probably still grumbling about the invention of fast food.
3. Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan (Japan) – Est. 705 AD
This Japanese inn has been offering hot springs and hospitality since 705 AD. That’s 52 generations of the same family keeping the baths warm. While empires and the related mental breakdowns have risen and fallen, this place has been consistently providing relaxation—talk about job stability!
2. Hōshi Ryokan (Japan) – Est. 718 AD
Established in 718 AD, Hōshi Ryokan is another testament to Japan’s long-standing tradition of hospitality. Surviving over a millennium, they’ve seen it all—from samurais to smartphones. Their enduring presence makes your favorite “vintage” café look like a newborn.
1. Kongō Gumi (Japan) – Est. 578 AD
Topping the list is Kongō Gumi, a construction company founded in 578 AD. Specializing in building Buddhist temples, they’ve been nailing it (literally) for over 1,400 years. Their longevity makes them the grandmasters of “Measure twice, cut once.”
As Ernest Hemingway famously wrote,
“The world breaks everyone, and afterward many are strong at the broken places. But those that will not break it kills. It kills the very good and the very gentle and the very brave impartially. If you are none of these,you can be sure it will kill you too,but there will be no special hurry.
These companies prove that with dedication, adaptability, and perhaps a bit of stubbornness, businesses can endure through the centuries. Or maybe they just have really, really good customer service.