The Lion of Babylon
Discover the Lion of Babylon, an ancient Mesopotamian symbol of strength and cultural heritage in the heart of Babylon, Iraq.
The Lion of Babylon is a 2,600-year-old black basalt statue that stands as a powerful symbol of Iraq's rich cultural heritage. Located in the ancient city of Babylon, the statue is believed to date back to the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 BC), though some theories suggest it may have Hittite origins. The lion is depicted trampling a human, representing the king's strength and dominance over his enemies. The statue is made of solid black basalt and stretches approximately 2.6 meters long and 1.95 meters high. The lion is associated with the goddess Ishtar, symbolizing love, fertility, and war. The statue's back features markings that suggest it may have once supported a figure of Ishtar. Discovered in 1876 by a German archaeological mission, the Lion of Babylon has become a national symbol of Iraq, appearing on currency, logos, and in popular culture. Over the years, the Lion of Babylon has faced threats from vandalism and environmental factors. The World Monuments Fund (WMF) has collaborated with the Iraq State Board of Antiquities and Heritage (SBAH) since 2009 to conserve and protect the statue. These efforts have included stabilizing the base, cleaning the sculpture, and installing barriers to prevent further damage. Today, visitors can view the Lion of Babylon in its restored state, standing as a testament to the resilience of ancient Mesopotamian civilization.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking around the landmark and its surroundings.
- Bring water and snacks, as there may be limited facilities nearby.
- Respect local customs and regulations while visiting this culturally significant site.
A brief summary to Babel Lion
- الحلة،, Babylon Governorate, 51000, IQ
Getting There
-
Car
If arriving by car, set your GPS to the coordinates 32.5450663, 44.4215437 or enter the address 'الحلة،, Babylon Governorate, 51000'. Follow signs towards Al-Hillah and then directional signs to the historical sites. Parking is typically available near the site, with a small fee of around 1000 to 2000 IQD.
-
Public Transport
From Baghdad, take a shared taxi to Babylon from the Alawi bus station. The journey will take you to Hillah, from where you can access the Babylon site. Ensure to confirm the fare before starting your journey. Once in Hillah, local taxis can take you to the Lion of Babylon.
-
Walking
Once within the Babylon archaeological site, the Lion of Babylon is located near the Northern Palace, at the northern end of the Processional Way. Follow the marked paths within the site; it's a well-maintained and accessible area.
