Location and Geography

Babylon was situated on the Euphrates River, about 50 miles south of modern Baghdad. The city was strategically located for trade and commerce, and its fertile surroundings made it an ideal location for agriculture.

History

Babylon's history dates back to the 3rd millennium BCE. It was the capital of the ancient Babylonian Empire, which was one of the most powerful and influential empires of its time. The city reached its peak during the reign of King Hammurabi, who is famous for creating one of the earliest known legal codes, the Code of Hammurabi.

Architecture and Engineering

Babylon was known for its impressive architecture, including the famous Hanging Gardens, which were one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city also had massive defensive walls and impressive ziggurats, which were towering temple structures.

Religion and Culture

Babylon was a center of religious and cultural diversity, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses worshipped by its inhabitants. The city was also known for its contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and literature, including the famous Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known works of literature.

Decline and Legacy

After its peak, Babylon fell to various conquerors and eventually declined in significance. However, its legacy lived on through its influence on later cultures, including the Greeks and Romans. The biblical references to Babylon also contributed to its lasting impact on Western culture.