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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 in Mesopotamia, near Nasiriyah, Iraq.

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The Great Ziggurat of Ur, located near Nasiriyah in present-day Iraq, is a remarkable Neo-Sumerian ziggurat dating back to the 21st century BCE. Built by King Ur-Nammu and completed by his son King Shulgi, it was dedicated to the moon god Nanna and served as an administrative center for the city. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved ziggurats, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian civilization.

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 for cooler temperatures and optimal 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.
  • Check visiting hours before your trip, as they may vary seasonally.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Nasiriyah, head south on Al-Qadisiyyah Street (Highway 7). Follow signs for the Ziggurat of Ur. The drive takes about 20 minutes. Free parking is available near the site entrance.

  • 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). The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the driver will drop you off at the entrance.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Nasiriyah to the Great Ziggurat of Ur costs around 10,000 to 15,000 Iraqi Dinar (approximately $7 to $10 USD). The taxi will take you directly to the Ziggurat.

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Discover more about Great Ziggurat of Ur

The Great Ziggurat of Ur, also known as Etemenniguru, is a stunning testament to the architectural and religious practices of ancient Mesopotamia. Constructed in the Early Bronze Age around 2100 BCE, the ziggurat was built by King Ur-Nammu of the Third Dynasty of Ur and completed by his son, King Shulgi. It was dedicated to Nanna, the moon god and patron deity of the city of Ur, and formed the centerpiece of a larger temple complex that served as an administrative hub. The ziggurat is a massive stepped pyramid with a rectangular base, rising towards the realm of the gods. Its core is made of mud brick, faced with burnt bricks set in bitumen for protection against the elements. The structure originally had three tiers and three staircases leading to a temple at the top. Inside the temple was a shrine with a bedchamber for the god and a maiden. Over time, the ziggurat underwent several restorations, including one in the 6th century BCE by King Nabonidus and another in the 1980s under Saddam Hussein. Today, visitors can explore the partially reconstructed façade and monumental staircase, as well as the remains of the Neo-Babylonian structure. The site provides insights into the daily life of the Sumerians, with ruins of temples and residential areas. Despite some damage from past conflicts, the Great Ziggurat of Ur remains one of the most well-preserved ziggurats, offering a serene and reflective experience amidst the vast desert landscape.

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