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Ancient Ruins of Babylon: A Journey Through Mesopotamian History

Discover the wonders of Ancient Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the cradle of Mesopotamian civilization, in Hillah, Iraq.

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Explore the legendary Ancient Ruins of Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iraq, and capital of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Wander through the remnants of this once-great city, including the Ishtar Gate, the Lion of Babylon, and Saddam Hussein's palace, while imagining life in one of the most influential empires of the ancient world.

A brief summary to Ancient Ruins of Babylon

  • GCRC+Q93, سنجار, Babylon Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and there is a lot of walking involved.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the ruins.
  • Combine your visit to Babylon with a trip to the nearby city of Hillah, which offers additional cultural and historical attractions.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Hillah, the closest city to Babylon, a taxi ride to the ruins is the most convenient option. Taxis are readily available in Hillah, especially near the bus station. A one-way trip to Babylon should cost around 5,000 IQD. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Babylon via public transport, first take a bus from Baghdad to Hillah. Buses depart regularly from Baghdad's main bus station, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. The bus fare is around 10,000 IQD. Once in Hillah, you can hire a taxi for around 5,000 IQD to reach the Ancient Ruins of Babylon.

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Discover more about Ancient Ruins of Babylon

The Ancient Ruins of Babylon, located approximately 85 kilometers south of Baghdad in present-day Iraq, offer a captivating glimpse into one of history's most influential civilizations. Once the heart of the Babylonian Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the remains of a city that thrived for millennia, leaving behind a rich legacy of culture, innovation, and power. Founded over 4,000 years ago, Babylon rose to prominence under King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, becoming a center of religion and culture. The city reached its zenith during the Neo-Babylonian Empire (626-539 BCE) under King Nebuchadnezzar II, who transformed it into an architectural marvel. It was during this era that the Ishtar Gate, the Hanging Gardens (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), and the Tower of Babel were said to have been constructed. Today, visitors can explore the sprawling ruins, including the reconstructed Ishtar Gate adorned with blue glazed bricks and intricate reliefs of dragons and bulls. The Lion of Babylon, a basalt statue dating back to Nebuchadnezzar's time, stands as a symbol of the city's strength. Though the exact location of the Hanging Gardens remains a mystery, the site evokes a sense of wonder and imagination. Saddam Hussein's regime carried out a controversial reconstruction of the ruins in the 1980s, adding a modern palace that now stands alongside the ancient structures. While the reconstruction has been criticized for its impact on the original site, it also provides a unique perspective on the layers of history that have shaped Babylon. Despite looting and damage over the centuries, the Ancient Ruins of Babylon continue to inspire awe and offer a tangible connection to the past.

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