UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Babylon
Iraq

Babylon

Ancient city with iconic structures and empires

Location

Explore the Map

Historical Context

About

Babylon was a prominent ancient city located in southern Mesopotamia, near modern-day Hillah, Iraq. It served as the cultural and political center of the Akkadian-speaking region of Babylonia, and was the capital of several significant empires, including the Old Babylonian and Neo-Babylonian Empires. Known for its impressive defensive walls, temples, and the legendary Hanging Gardens, Babylon was a hub of architectural and cultural achievements. The city played a crucial role in the history of Mesopotamia, witnessing the reign of famous rulers such as Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar II. Despite its eventual decline during the Hellenistic period and subsequent changes in rule, Babylon's archaeological remains continue to provide insights into ancient urban planning, religious practices, and imperial power dynamics.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations

FileAncient_Remains_in_Babylon.jpg
FileBabylon_1932.jpg
FileBabylon_relief.jpg
+20 More
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

Old Babylonian Empire

1792 BCE

Neo-Babylonian Empire

626 BCE

Fall to Achaemenid Empire

539 BCE

Alexander the Great's Rule

331 BCE

Hellenistic Decline

320 BCE

Last known habitation

11th century CE

Small town under Akkadian

2217–2193 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

Defensive Walls
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesZiggurats
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesInscriptions
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

CitiesPalaces
category

Transportation and Communication Structures

Processional Pathways
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

Iraq

Coordinates

32.54° N, 44.42° E