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Ancient Ruins of Babylon: A Journey Through Mesopotamian History

Discover Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage site and cradle of civilization, where ancient wonders and Mesopotamian history come to life.

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Explore the ancient city of Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iraq, and discover the remnants of a civilization that shaped the course of history. Wander through the ruins of grand structures, including the Ishtar Gate and the Tower of Babel, and imagine the bustling metropolis that once thrived here.

A brief summary to Ancient Ruins of Babylon

  • GCRC+Q93, سنجار, Babylon Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of the ruins.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the ruins.
  • Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the city of Hillah, the ruins of Babylon are a short taxi ride away. Taxis are readily available in Hillah, particularly near the bus station. A one-way trip to Babylon should cost approximately 5,000 IQD. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Babylon via public transport, take a bus from Baghdad to Hilla. Buses depart regularly from Baghdad's main bus station, with a journey time of around 2 hours. Once in Hilla, hire a taxi or take a local minibus to the Ancient Ruins of Babylon. Negotiate the taxi fare in advance.

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Discover more about Ancient Ruins of Babylon

The Ancient Ruins of Babylon, located 85 km south of Baghdad in present-day Iraq, offer a captivating glimpse into one of the most influential empires of the ancient world. Once the capital of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, Babylon's history stretches back over 4,000 years, with its origins as a small town dating back to the Akkadian Empire. The city rose to prominence under King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC and reached its zenith during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II. As you explore the sprawling site, you'll encounter remnants of magnificent structures that once defined this great city. The Ishtar Gate, adorned with intricate blue tiles and reliefs of dragons and bulls, offers a glimpse into the artistic achievements of the Babylonians. Although the exact location remains a subject of debate, envision the legendary Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The site also includes temples, ziggurats, and remnants of the ancient city walls, each whispering tales of kings, conquerors, and the everyday lives of its inhabitants. While exploring the archaeological site, note the controversial reconstruction efforts, particularly those undertaken by Saddam Hussein, which have sparked debate among historians and archaeologists. Despite the challenges, Babylon remains a powerful reminder of our shared human heritage and the remarkable achievements of ancient civilizations.

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