Background

The Walls of Babylon: A Glimpse into Antiquity

Explore the remnants of the Walls of Babylon, a symbol of ancient Mesopotamia's power and architectural prowess. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.2

The Walls of Babylon stand as a testament to the grandeur and might of the Babylonian Empire. Built primarily by King Nebuchadnezzar II in the 6th century BCE, these imposing structures once encircled the entire city, serving as both a formidable defense and a symbol of imperial power. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of these walls, imagining the bustling metropolis that once thrived within.

A brief summary to Wall of the city of Babylon

  • GCGF+795، شارع منتجع بابل السياحي,Babylon Resort Street, حله،, Babylon Governorate, IQ
  • +9647819062375

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy better lighting for photography.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the wall and the city of Babylon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces while exploring the site.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited near the site.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the city center of Hillah, taxis are readily available. Inform the driver you wish to go to the 'Wall of the city of Babylon'. The ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between 3,000 to 5,000 IQD for the trip.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach the Wall of the City of Babylon using public transportation, head to the nearest bus station in Babel. Look for buses heading towards 'Hilla' or 'Babylon Historical Sites'. The fare is usually around 500-1000 IQD depending on the distance. Inform the driver that you want to go to the Wall of the city of Babylon. The bus will take you along the main roads, and you will need to get off at the stop near Babylon Resort Street. From there, it is a short walk (approximately 10 minutes) to the entrance of the site, following the signs along the way.

  • Car

    If driving from the center of Babel, head west on Al-Nasr Street towards the Babylon Resort Street. Continue straight on Al-Nasr Street for about 3 kilometers. When you reach the roundabout, take the second exit onto Babylon Resort Street and follow the signs for the Wall of the city of Babylon. After approximately 1 kilometer, you will see the entrance to the historical site on your left. Parking is available nearby but may incur a small fee.

Unlock the Best of Wall of the city of Babylon

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Wall of the city of Babylon

The Walls of Babylon, located in present-day Iraq, represent one of the most impressive engineering and architectural achievements of the ancient world. Constructed and fortified over centuries, with significant contributions from King Hammurabi in 1792 BC and later King Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 BC), the walls served as the primary defense for the city of Babylon. These walls were not just defensive structures; they were a statement of Babylon's wealth, power, and ingenuity. Nebuchadnezzar II expanded the walls, creating a triple-layered fortification so wide that, according to some accounts, chariot races could be held on top. The walls featured numerous gates, the most famous being the Ishtar Gate, known for its vibrant blue glazed bricks adorned with images of bulls, dragons, and lions. While the original Ishtar Gate is now housed in Berlin's Pergamon Museum, a replica stands in Babylon, offering visitors a glimpse of its former splendor. Beyond their defensive role, the walls enclosed a vast area, including agricultural land to ensure the city could withstand long sieges. Guard towers were strategically placed along the walls, providing vantage points for archers and soldiers. The Euphrates River flowed through the city, with the walls and sophisticated gate systems controlling access. Today, while much of the ancient city lies in ruins, the remaining sections of the Walls of Babylon evoke a sense of the city's past glory. Excavations and partial reconstructions offer insights into the scale and complexity of this ancient wonder. Despite damage from looting and military occupation, the site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, recognizing its outstanding universal value. Visitors can walk along the remnants of the walls, explore the archaeological site, and reflect on the rich history and cultural significance of Babylon.

Popular Experiences near Wall of the city of Babylon

Popular Hotels near Wall of the city of Babylon

Select Currency