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Eridu: Cradle of Sumerian Civilization

Explore Eridu, the ancient Sumerian city and believed to be the first city in the world, located in present-day Iraq.

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Eridu, located in present-day Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq, is considered by many to be the oldest city in the world. Founded around 5400 BC, this Sumerian city was home to the temple of Enki, the god of water and wisdom, and a vital religious and political center.

A brief summary to Eridu, Sumeria

  • RX8V+PW9, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months, from October to March, for a more comfortable experience.
  • Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the site.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the site can be quite exposed.
  • Respect the site and its artifacts; avoid climbing on the ruins.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the archaeological site.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Nasiriyah, head southwest on Route 7, following signs for Al-Qadisiyyah. After approximately 30 kilometers, turn left onto Route 2 and continue for about 10 kilometers. Follow the signs for Eridu, and after 5 kilometers, you will arrive at the historical site. Parking is available nearby.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Nasiriyah to Al-Qadisiyyah. Buses leave regularly from the Nasiriyah bus station; the fare is about 1,000 IQD. From Al-Qadisiyyah, hire a local taxi to Eridu for approximately 10,000 IQD. Confirm the fare before starting your journey; the ride will take about 20-30 minutes.

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Discover more about Eridu, Sumeria

Eridu, now known as Tell Abu Shahrain, is located in southern Mesopotamia. Revered by the ancient Sumerians as the first city, Eridu was believed to have been created by the gods as the starting point for civilization. The city was home to Enki (also known as Ea), the god of wisdom and fresh water, who later became one of the most important deities in the Mesopotamian pantheon. Eridu was built at the confluence of three ecosystems: the fisher-hunter culture, the Samarra culture, and nomadic peoples. The urban settlement was centered on Enki's temple, E-Abzu, which translates to "House of the Aquifer". Over centuries, new temples were built over the ruins of older ones, eventually forming a large ziggurat. The city expanded outwards from this religious center, with mud-brick and reed houses. Today, Eridu's ruins offer a glimpse into early urban planning and Sumerian life. Archaeological excavations have revealed significant artifacts, advanced architectural techniques, and the presence of cuneiform tablets, indicating Eridu's role as an early center for writing. Although Eridu declined around 600 BCE due to environmental changes and political shifts, it remains an important historical and religious site, embodying the dawn of urban civilization.

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