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Great Ziggurat of Ur: A Mesopotamian Marvel

Explore the ancient marvel of the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a testament to Sumerian civilization and Mesopotamian religious architecture.

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The Great Ziggurat of Ur, located near Nasiriyah in present-day Iraq, is a remarkably well-preserved Neo-Sumerian ziggurat dating back to the 21st century BC. Built by King Ur-Nammu and completed by his son, King Shulgi, it was dedicated to the moon god Nanna, the patron deity of Ur. The massive terraced structure served as both a religious temple and an administrative center, showcasing the power and architectural skills of the ancient Sumerians.

A brief summary to Great Ziggurat of Ur

  • X473+473, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ziggurat.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities nearby may be limited.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If traveling by car from Nasiriyah, head south on Al-Quds Street (Route 7) for approximately 5 km, then turn right onto Route 8. Follow the road signs for the Ziggurat of Ur; the drive is about 15-20 minutes. Free parking is available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    From Nasiriyah, take a minibus or shared taxi from the main bus terminal near Al-Nasr Square. Look for a minibus heading towards 'Ziggurat of Ur' or 'Ur'. The fare is approximately 1,000 IQD (approximately $0.70 USD), and the journey takes around 30 minutes. Inform the driver of your destination to be dropped off at the entrance.

  • Taxi

    Consider taking a taxi from Nasiriyah directly to the Great Ziggurat of Ur for a direct route. The cost should be around 10,000 to 15,000 Iraqi Dinar (approximately $7 to $10 USD) for a one-way trip. You can arrange for the driver to wait while you explore the site.

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Discover more about Great Ziggurat of Ur

The Great Ziggurat of Ur stands as a testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of ancient Mesopotamian civilization. Constructed around 2100 BCE during the Early Bronze Age, this imposing structure was a centerpiece of the city of Ur, near modern-day Nasiriyah, Iraq. The ziggurat was dedicated to Nanna, the moon god and patron deity of Ur, reflecting the central role of religion in Sumerian society. King Ur-Nammu initiated the construction, and his son King Shulgi completed it. The massive step pyramid, originally measuring approximately 64 meters in length, 45 meters in width, and over 30 meters in height, was built with a core of mud brick covered by a protective layer of burnt brick set in bitumen. This tiered design accommodated the administrative and religious activities essential to the city. Three monumental staircases led to a gate at the first terrace level, with a single staircase rising to the second terrace, which supported a platform with a temple. Over the centuries, the ziggurat fell into ruin but was later restored by King Nabonidus during the Neo-Babylonian period in the 6th century BC. In the 1980s, Saddam Hussein undertook a partial reconstruction of the façade and monumental staircase. Despite some damage during the Gulf War in 1991, the Ziggurat of Ur remains one of the best-preserved ziggurats from Mesopotamia. Visiting the Ziggurat of Ur offers a unique glimpse into the world of the Sumerians. The well-maintained pathways and informative signage enhance the experience for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. Exploring the site provides a connection to humanity's shared heritage and a profound appreciation for the impact of the past.

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