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Great Ziggurat of Ur: A Mesopotamian Marvel

Explore the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a magnificent monument to ancient Sumerian civilization in Iraq, dedicated to the moon god Nanna.

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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, this ancient structure was dedicated to the moon god Nanna and served as an administrative center for the city of Ur. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural prowess 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 in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces while exploring the ruins.
  • 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

  • Public Transport

    From Nasiriyah, head to the main bus terminal near Al-Nasr Square. Look for a minibus heading towards 'Ziggurat of Ur' or 'Ur'. The fare is approximately 3,000-5,000 IQD. The journey should take around 30 minutes. Inform the driver of your destination, and they will drop you off at the entrance to the Ziggurat.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nasiriyah. A taxi from Nasiriyah to the Great Ziggurat of Ur should cost around 10,000 to 15,000 Iraqi Dinar (approximately $7 to $10 USD) for a one-way trip. The taxi will take you directly to the Ziggurat. It's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Car

    If driving from Nasiriyah, head south on Al-Qadisiyyah Street (Highway 7) towards the Ziggurat. Follow the signs for the Ziggurat of Ur. The journey should take around 20 minutes. There is a designated parking lot near the site entrance with free parking.

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Discover more about Great Ziggurat of Ur

The Great Ziggurat of Ur, also known as Etemenniguru, stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and religious beliefs of the ancient Sumerians. Constructed around 2100 BC during the Early Bronze Age, this massive stepped pyramid was dedicated to Nanna, the moon god and patron deity of the city of Ur. The ziggurat was a central part of a temple complex that served as the administrative heart of the city. Originally, the ziggurat measured approximately 64 meters in length, 45 meters in width, and over 30 meters in height. Its core was built from mud bricks, while the exterior was faced with burnt bricks set in bitumen, a naturally occurring tar, to protect it from the elements. The structure consisted of successively smaller platforms, forming a terraced pyramid. It is speculated that each tier may have been planted with vegetation. Access to the top was via a triple monumental staircase that converged at a portal. Over the centuries, the Ziggurat of Ur fell into ruin but was later restored by King Nabonidus in the 6th century BC. In the 1920s and 1930s, Sir Leonard Woolley led extensive excavations, unearthing the ziggurat's remains. During the 1980s, Saddam Hussein ordered a partial reconstruction of the façade and monumental staircase. Although the rebuilt ziggurat sustained some damage during the Gulf War in 1991, it remains one of the best-preserved ziggurats from Mesopotamia. Today, visitors can explore the Ziggurat of Ur and marvel at its imposing size and unique architectural features. The site also includes the remains of the Temple of Nanna, residential quarters, and royal tombs, providing a glimpse into the broader context of life in ancient Ur. The Ziggurat of Ur was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016.

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