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Great Ziggurat of Ur: A Mesopotamian Marvel

Explore the ancient wonders of Mesopotamia at the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a testament to Sumerian ingenuity and religious devotion.

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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 stands as a testament to the architectural and religious significance of ancient Mesopotamia.

A brief summary to Great Ziggurat of Ur

  • X473+473, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ

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

    From Nasiriyah, head south on Al-Qadisiyyah Street (Highway 7) towards the Ziggurat of Ur. Follow the road signs; the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Free parking is available near the site entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From Nasiriyah, take a local bus towards Ur or any bus heading to Dhi Qar Governorate. The bus ride takes around 30 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a 15-20 minute walk to the Ziggurat. Bus fare is approximately 1,000 IQD ($0.70 USD).

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Nasiriyah to the Great Ziggurat of Ur costs approximately 10,000 to 15,000 Iraqi Dinar (approximately $7 to $10 USD) for a one-way trip. The taxi ride takes about 20 minutes. Arrange for the driver to wait if needed.

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Discover more about Great Ziggurat of Ur

Rising from the plains of the Dhi Qar Governorate, the Great Ziggurat of Ur is a powerful reminder of Sumerian civilization. Constructed around 2100 BCE, the ziggurat was dedicated to Nanna, the moon god and patron deity of the city of Ur. The massive structure served as both an administrative center and a sacred shrine, reflecting the intertwined nature of religion and governance in ancient Mesopotamia. The ziggurat's design is a marvel of ancient engineering. Its core is made of mud brick, while the outer layer consists of burnt bricks set in bitumen, a naturally occurring tar, to create a waterproof surface. The structure originally had three tiers, with a temple at the summit. Over time, it experienced periods of decay and restoration, notably by King Nabonidus in the 6th century BCE and, more recently, under Saddam Hussein in the 1980s. Visitors to the Ziggurat of Ur can explore the partially reconstructed façade and monumental staircase, gaining insight into the ziggurat's original grandeur. The surrounding ruins offer glimpses into the daily life of the Sumerians, with remnants of temples, residential areas, and sacred precincts. Walking around the site, one can appreciate the scale of this ancient city and the ingenuity of its builders. The Ziggurat of Ur is not only a historical landmark but also a place for reflection on the achievements and enduring legacy of Mesopotamian civilization.

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