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Sennacherib's Palace: Echoes of Assyrian Majesty in Nineveh

Explore the ruins of Sennacherib's Palace in Nineveh, a window into the glorious and powerful Assyrian Empire, and a testament to ancient Mesopotamian history.

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Sennacherib's Palace in Nineveh, now part of Mosul, Iraq, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Assyrian Empire. Built by King Sennacherib in the 7th century BC, this 'Palace Without Rival' once boasted elaborate stone carvings and served as the empire's capital. Today, it offers a glimpse into the region's rich history, despite the damage it has sustained.

A brief summary to Sennacherib Palace Nineveh

  • 9552+2V8, Mosul, The Left Coast, Nineveh Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a more serene experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history of the palace.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Mosul, a taxi is the most direct way to reach Sennacherib's Palace. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. A short trip to the palace should cost approximately 3,000-5,000 IQD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Local mini-buses and shared taxis operate in Mosul, but require some Arabic language skills to navigate. These can be found at central bus stops and offer an affordable way to reach the vicinity of the palace. Fares typically range from 500 to 1,000 IQD. From the drop-off point, a short walk or a brief taxi ride may be needed to reach the palace entrance.

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Discover more about Sennacherib Palace Nineveh

Sennacherib's Palace, also known as the 'Palace Without Rival,' was constructed by King Sennacherib around 700 BC when he made Nineveh the capital of the Assyrian Empire. The palace was an ambitious project, reflecting the king's power and vision. The structure was massive, measuring approximately 503 by 242 meters, and contained at least 80 rooms adorned with detailed sculpture. These carvings depicted scenes of military campaigns, the transport of colossal bull statues (lamassu), and various aspects of Assyrian life, offering insights into ancient quarrying and transport techniques. The palace's foundation was made of limestone blocks and mud bricks, rising 22 meters high. The exterior facades were constructed from thousands of baked bricks, faced with polished white plaster, and capped with blue-glazed bricks. Inside, bronze columns with bases in the form of lions added to the palace's splendor. Cuneiform tablets discovered within the palace provided valuable historical and literary information. Nineveh was sacked in 612 BC by a coalition of Babylonians, Medes, and Scythians, leading to the collapse of the Assyrian Empire. The city was razed after bitter fighting, and while not completely abandoned, it never regained its former glory. The ruins of Nineveh, including Sennacherib's Palace, have been subject to archaeological exploration since the 19th century, with ongoing efforts to uncover and preserve its remains. Despite significant damage, the site remains an important cultural landmark, offering a tangible connection to the ancient world.

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