These incredible structures from ancient Iraq are like temples out of a fantasy novel like Dune! Picture a massive, terraced pyramid with layers of steps, leading up to a shrine perched at the top. That's a ziggurat!
But these aren't just any old buildings; they played a pivotal role in ancient Mesopotamian culture and religion.
Ziggurat of Ur:
In the heart of Dhi-Qar, Iraq, you'll find the Ziggurat of Ur. It was built around 2100 B.C. by Sumerian King Ur-Nammu to honour the moon god Nanna. What's fascinating is that this ziggurat is like a compass, with its four corners pointing precisely in the cardinal directions.
But that's not all! When you visit, you'll step into the ancient city of Ur, where you can see the oldest surviving architectural arch in the world. You can even explore Abraham's supposed house! This place was the cradle of the Sumerian Renaissance, thanks to kings like Ur-Nammu and his son Shulgi, who transformed the city into a hub of culture and excellence.
Ziggurat of Dur-Kurigalzu:
Move a little west from Baghdad, and you'll encounter the Ziggurat of Dur-Kurigalzu, also known as Aqar-Quf. It soars to an impressive 52 metres in height, and there's an intriguing tale about it. Back in mediaeval times, travellers believed it might be the biblical Tower of Babel, as Babylon was thought to be in the same location. But it's a Babylonian city, not the famous one! This ziggurat was devoted to the god Enlil, often associated with the elements - wind, earth, air, and storms. It's like a towering piece of ancient weather tech! Excavations here have uncovered cuneiform tablets and other treasures that tell stories of the day-to-day lives of Babylonians.
Ziggurat of Borsippa:
Borsippa, situated 17.7 km away from Babylon. It might not have been the powerhouse like Babylon, but it had its own claim to fame - the Ziggurat of Borsippa. This one was dedicated to Nabu, the god of literacy, scribes, and wisdom. The Achaemenid king Xerxes ended up destroying the temple during a revolt. Excavations have turned up some interesting discoveries, including Nebuchadnezzar II's inscriptions, where he talks about restoring the Nabu temple. These remains still stand tall at about 52 metres!
Ziggurats are truly awe-inspiring feats of engineering and windows into ancient cultures.
If you're an adventurer at heart and love history, they're a must-visit when you're in Iraq. Want to make your journey even more awesome? Check out Bil Weekend – we have all the details covered, from transportation to guided tours. You'll get to explore the wonders of these ancient marvels while soaking in the rich history and culture of Iraq! Happy ziggurat hunting!
CbJWBmXVjv
gVdXkZoFxBuQAsy