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Ur: Cradle of Civilization

Explore Ur, the ancient Sumerian city in Iraq, featuring the Ziggurat and Royal Tombs, offering a glimpse into Mesopotamia's rich history.

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Explore the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, a major Mesopotamian city-state with a rich history dating back to 3800 BCE. Discover the impressive Ziggurat of Ur and delve into the fascinating world of early urban development, religion, and culture in southern Iraq.

A brief summary to Ur

  • X464+92R, Mahatt Ur, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements before planning your trip to Iraq.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to provide insights into the history and culture of Ur and help navigate the archaeological site.
  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Southern Iraq experiences hot and dry weather, so pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Nasiriyah, the most practical way to reach Ur is by taxi. Taxis are readily available in Nasiriyah. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical taxi ride from Nasiriyah to Ur takes approximately 23 minutes and costs between $35 and $50. Confirm the price and arrange for the driver to wait or return for you, as transportation options at the site are limited.

  • Car

    If you have a rental car, driving to Ur from Nasiriyah is straightforward. The drive is approximately 13 miles and takes about 23 minutes. Be aware of checkpoints along the way. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including your driver's license, car rental agreement, and passport. Fuel costs for the trip are minimal, estimated at $1-$2.

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Discover more about Ur

Ur, located at the site of modern Tell el-Muqayyar in southern Iraq, was a major Sumerian city-state in ancient Mesopotamia. Founded around 3800 BCE, it is recorded in written history from the 26th century BCE. The city was dedicated to Nanna, the moon god, and its name means 'the abode of Nanna'. During the third millennium BCE, Ur was a highly centralized, wealthy, bureaucratic state. The discovery of the Royal Tombs, dating from about the 25th century BCE, revealed luxury items made of precious metals and semi-precious stones, indicating extensive trade. Some estimate that Ur was the largest city in the world from 2030-1980 BCE, with approximately 65,000 people. Key structures at Ur include the Ziggurat, a massive stepped pyramid built in the 21st century BCE during the reign of Ur-Nammu and reconstructed in the 6th century BCE by Nabonidus. The city also featured the Royal Cemetery, where the tombs of Sumerian kings were discovered. Ur came under the control of the Akkadian Empire between the 24th and 22nd centuries BCE. After the fall of this empire, Ur was ruled by the Gutians until King Ur-Nammu came to power around 2047-2030 BCE, establishing the Third Dynasty of Ur. This period saw the construction of temples like the Ziggurat, improved agricultural irrigation, and the creation of the Code of Ur-Nammu, a code of laws predating the Code of Hammurabi by 300 years. Ur lost its political power after the Third Dynasty but remained economically important. It was ruled by the first dynasty of Babylonia, then part of the Sealand Dynasty, and later by the Kassites before falling to the Assyrian Empire. The city began its final decline around 550 BCE and was uninhabited by 500 BCE, likely due to drought, changing river patterns, and the silting of the Persian Gulf. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Ur, including the Ziggurat, remnants of ancient houses, and the Royal Cemetery.

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