Multan in Punjab province of Pakistan, is one of the oldest cities of South Asia, though its exact age has yet to be determined. Multan is known for its rich ancient heritage and historic landmarks. Multan was the capital and primary cultural centre of Punjab region in the bulk of; later ancient and medieval era. It was centre of many civilizations in its 5 millennia old history.

Multan was made a separate state, the Emirate of Multan including in its limits parts of Punjab and Kashmir during the Arab rule of 9th and (or) 10th century. It is famous for its Sufi shrines. Province of Multan was one of the largest and initially established provinces of the Mughal Empire.

Multan was founded by great grandson of Prophet Noah before 3000 BC era, according to the historian Firishta. It was home to ancient Indo Aryan civilization. According to Hindu tradition the ancient name of Multan was ''Mulasthana'' and the current name Multan was possibly associated with the Mallian people who faced Greek army and were defeated by Alexander the Great's army after a fierce battle. "Once Keshap Pura (Multan) was capital of the Raja Hurnakas.

Darius the great's invasion

Multan was conquered and included in the province of Arachosia by Achaemenid ruler Darius the great in 500 BC era. At the time Multan was part of Gandharan civilization.

Multan was ruled by various native empires before the invasion of Alexander the Great. It is said by some historians that when Alexander was fighting for the city, a poisoned arrow struck him, making him ill and eventually leading to his death. The exact place where Alexander was hit by the arrow can be seen in the old city premises. The noted Chinese traveller Huen Tsang visited Multan in 641.

Multan later remained under control of Rai dynasty and Brahman Dynasty of Sindh.

In the 7th century, Multan had its first arrival of the Muslim armies. Armies led by Al Muhallab ibn Abi Suffrah launched numerous raids from Persia into India in 664 for inclusion of the area into their empires.