Babylon
Country: Iraq
Region: Middle East
Period: 1894BCE-2CE
Location: 32.5425°N, 44.421111°E
Description
Babylon was one of the most iconic cities of ancient Mesopotamia, located on the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq. Founded around the 18th century BCE, it became the capital of the Babylonian Empire under King Hammurabi and later under Nebuchadnezzar II. Babylon was known for its impressive architecture, including the legendary Hanging Gardens (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), its ziggurat (the Etemenanki), and its advanced urban planning.
Modern Remains
The ruins of Babylon are located near the modern city of Hillah in Iraq. Key archaeological remains include the Ishtar Gate, the Processional Way, and the foundation of the ziggurat Etemenanki, which is believed to have inspired the biblical Tower of Babel story. Excavations have revealed the city's urban layout, temples, and royal palaces. While much of Babylon has been damaged over the centuries, its remains continue to be a crucial site for understanding ancient Mesopotamian civilization. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.