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Ancient City of Babylon

Discover Babylon, the ancient Mesopotamian city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into one of history's most influential empires.

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Explore the ruins of Babylon, one of the most famous cities of the ancient world, located near Hillah, Iraq. Once the center of the Babylonian Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features remnants of grand palaces, the Ishtar Gate, and the site of the Tower of Babel, offering a glimpse into a rich history of culture, war, and architectural marvels.

A brief summary to The Ancient City of Babylon

  • Unnamed Road Babylon بابل, Babylon Governorate, 51001, IQ
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, as the area can get hot and dry.
  • Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated while exploring the ruins.
  • Engage a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the history and significance of the sites.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Hillah, a vibrant town offering a glimpse into modern Iraqi life.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Hillah, the main town near Babylon, a taxi to the historic site costs approximately 5,000 IQD ($3.50/€3) one way. Ensure the driver knows the destination as 'The Ancient City of Babylon.' The journey takes around 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Hillah from Baghdad, take a shared taxi from the Allawi South garage for approximately 10,000 IQD ($7/€6). From Karbala or Najaf, shared taxis to Hillah are around 5,000 IQD. Once in Hillah, a taxi is needed to cover the final few kilometers to Babylon.

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Discover more about The Ancient City of Babylon

The Ancient City of Babylon, situated approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) south of Baghdad in present-day Iraq, stands as a testament to one of history's most influential empires. Founded around 2300 B.C., Babylon rose to prominence under Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, becoming the religious and cultural hub of southern Mesopotamia. The city saw its greatest architectural achievements during the Neo-Babylonian Empire under King Nebuchadnezzar II, who constructed the famed Ishtar Gate and is credited with the legendary Hanging Gardens. Visitors to Babylon can explore the reconstructed Ishtar Gate, adorned with vibrant blue glazed bricks and reliefs of bulls and dragons. The site also includes the ruins of Nebuchadnezzar's palace, offering insight into the administrative and defensive functions of the empire. Although the Hanging Gardens' exact location remains a mystery, the area evokes the grandeur of this ancient wonder. The Lion of Babylon, a 2,600-year-old stone statue, stands as one of the city's most celebrated artifacts. Despite its decline after falling to Cyrus the Great in 539 BC and subsequent conquests by Alexander the Great, the city's historical and cultural significance endures. In 2019, UNESCO recognized Babylon as a World Heritage Site, ensuring the preservation of its legacy for future generations. Today, Babylon offers a unique journey through time, inviting travelers to imagine the splendors of this ancient metropolis.

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