Histopedia

The first bank in the world is a matter of debate among historians, as the concept of banking has evolved over time. However, some of the oldest known banks include:

1. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (550 BC): This ancient Greek temple functioned as a bank, providing loans and financial services.
2. Medici Bank (1397): Founded in Florence, Italy, this bank was a leading financial institution during the Renaissance.
3. Banca Monte Dei Paschi di Siena (1472): Located in Siena, Italy, this bank is considered one of the oldest surviving banks in the world.
4. Bank of England (1694): Founded as a national bank to finance the English government’s activities.
5. Rothschild Bank (1769): Established in Frankfurt, Germany, this bank became a prominent international financial institution.

However, the oldest continuously operating bank is:

Banca Monte Dei Paschi di Siena (1472)

This Italian bank has been in operation for over 550 years, making it the oldest surviving bank in the world.

Key Milestones:

1. 1472: Founded as a Monte di Pietà (charitable institution)
2. 1624: Became a public bank
3. 1995: Transformed into a joint-stock company
4. 2017: Restructured as a result of financial difficulties

Services:

1. Retail banking
2. Corporate banking
3. Investment banking
4. Asset management

Headquarters: Siena, Italy

Assets: Over €200 billion (2022)