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Great Ziggurat of Ur: A Mesopotamian Marvel

Explore the ancient marvel of the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a testament to Sumerian civilization and Mesopotamian religious architecture in Nasiriyah, Iraq.

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The Great Ziggurat of Ur, located near Nasiriyah in present-day Iraq, is a remarkably well-preserved Neo-Sumerian ziggurat dating back to the 21st century BC. Built by King Ur-Nammu and completed by his son King Shulgi, it was dedicated to the moon god Nanna, the patron deity of the city of Ur. This ancient structure offers a glimpse into the religious and administrative heart of Mesopotamian civilization.

A brief summary to Great Ziggurat of Ur

  • X473+473, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ziggurat.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities nearby may be limited.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Nasiriyah, a taxi is a direct way to reach the Great Ziggurat of Ur. Taxis can be found throughout the city. A one-way trip should cost approximately 10,000 to 15,000 Iraqi Dinar (IQD), which is about $7 to $10 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes around 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Ziggurat of Ur via public transport from Nasiriyah, go to the main bus terminal near Al-Nasr Square. Look for a minibus heading towards 'Ziggurat of Ur' or 'Ur'. The fare is approximately 1,000 IQD (about $0.70 USD). The journey takes around 30 minutes. From the drop-off point, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the Ziggurat. Ask locals for directions to ensure you are heading the right way.

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Discover more about Great Ziggurat of Ur

The Great Ziggurat of Ur, also known as Etemenniguru, stands as a testament to the architectural and religious achievements of ancient Mesopotamia. Constructed around 2100 BC during the Early Bronze Age, the ziggurat was a central part of a temple complex in the city of Ur, near modern-day Nasiriyah, Iraq. The structure was built by King Ur-Nammu and completed by his son King Shulgi, who proclaimed himself a god to solidify his rule. The ziggurat was dedicated to Nanna (also known as Sîn), the moon god and the patron deity of Ur. It served not only as a shrine but also as an administrative center for the city. The massive step pyramid originally measured approximately 64 meters in length, 45 meters in width, and over 30 meters in height. Its core was made of mud brick, faced with burnt bricks set in bitumen, a naturally occurring tar, to create a waterproof surface. The baked bricks, each weighing about 33 pounds, were meticulously laid, with reed matting and sandy soil used to strengthen the core. Over the centuries, the ziggurat fell into ruin but was restored by King Nabonidus of the Neo-Babylonian Empire in the 6th century BC. In the 1920s and 1930s, Sir Leonard Woolley led excavations that revealed the ziggurat's remains. During the 1980s, Saddam Hussein initiated a partial reconstruction of the façade and monumental staircase. Today, the Ziggurat of Ur is one of the best-preserved ziggurats in Mesopotamia, offering visitors a tangible connection to the ancient world. The site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, “The Ahwar of Southern Iraq,” recognized for its biodiversity and Mesopotamian heritage.

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