Babylon
was
the undisputed leader of the Mesopotamian world. All cultures of
the region were found living together inside its grand and beautifully
decorated walls. The culture and tolerance found within this civilization
was legendary. The reputation for decadence and abhorrent behavior,
however, is the most common allusion attributed to this city-state of the
ancient world. Both Muslims and Christians alike look to Babylon
as a city destined to be the first city to burn as the world ends.
It seems that the reputation for peace and prosperity brought on by the
able rulers of Babylon will always be overshadowed by these references.
The
Hanging Gardens of Babylon was one of the wonders of the ancient
world. Built, according to ancient sources, by king Nebuchadnezzar
for his enjoyment. Some scholars believe that the gardens never existed
at all. Others have claimed to have discovered foundations and locations
throughout the region. Whether or not the gardens actually existed
is irrelevant, their impact and importance to Babylon only illustrates
the reputation for excessive pleasure that has formed opinions about the
city state to this day.
To Read a modern translation in full:
http://eawc.evansville.edu/anthology/hammurabi.htm
Babylonian
Buildings
Graphics link?
http://www.thedesignshoppe.com/
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