Discover the wonders of Babylon, including the Tower of Babel and the Hanging Gardens. Learn about the towering blue-bricked walls that protected the city. Explore the history and remains of the legendary walls, including the reconstructed Ishtar Gate in Berlin. Uncover the symbolic significance and mystical gates of Babylon, showcasing the craftsmanship and defensive functions. Delve into the legacy and gradual decline of the iconic walls, and an upcoming book project on Babylon's walls and gates.
The walls of Babylon symbolized power and defense strategy, showcasing multiple layers of fortifications over centuries.
The Ishtar Gate, a part of Babylon's walls, served as a protective barrier with divine symbols and vibrant designs.
Deep dives
The Magnificent Walls of Babylon
The walls of Babylon, originating from the 18th century BCE, were constructed under King Hammurabi's rule, expanding significantly during Nebuchadnezzar II's reign around 700-600 BCE. These fortifications, consisting of multiple layers due to repeated attacks and repairs, showcased the city's power and defense strategy.
The Iconic Ishtar Gate and Glazed Brickwork
The Ishtar Gate, a key part of Babylon's walls, boasted intricate designs with symbols of divinity, such as lions representing Ishtar and mythical creatures symbolizing other gods. Crafted from glazed bricks in vibrant colors, the gate served a dual purpose by showcasing power and acting as a protective barrier against evil forces.
Legacy and Influence of the Walls
Cyrus the Great, upon conquering Babylon, restored and repaired the walls, emphasizing their symbolic and practical importance. Later, the Persians integrated Babylonian architectural elements, like the Ishtar Gate design, into their constructions at Persepolis. However, over time, the walls deteriorated and were pillaged for building materials, diminishing their once grand presence.
Modern Exploration and Restoration Efforts
Recent archaeological endeavors in Babylon are shedding light on its historical significance and architectural marvels, despite previous damages inflicted during periods like Saddam Hussein's rule. Ongoing research, excavations, and restoration projects aim to revive and preserve Babylon's heritage for future generations.
The ancient metropolis of Babylon was famed for its wonders like the Tower of Babel and the mysterious Hanging Gardens. But few Babylonian monuments were as wondrous as the towering, blue-bricked walls and glittering gates that surrounded the city and protected those inside from enemies on the Mesopotamian Plain.
In todays episode of The Ancients, Tristan continues our mini-series focusing on the ancient world’s greatest architectural wonders by shining a light on the great walls of Babylon. He is joined by Prof. Lloyd Llewellyn Jones to tell the fascinating history of these legendary walls and explore what remains of them, including the magnificently reconstructed Ishtar Gate in Berlin.
This episode was produced and edited by Joseph Knight.
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