Ancient Babylonian Architecture and Mythology: Through Time and Space, the Mystery of a Millennial Civilization

Ancient Babylonian Architectural Achievements and Myths and Legends

1. Introduction:

In the distant past, a bright star lit up the sky of history, and that was the ancient Babylonian civilization. Its architectural achievements and myths and legends shine like two pearls. However, when we mention ancient Babylon, people tend to remember only its magnificent architecture and ignore the myths and legends behind it. Today, let's unravel the mysteries of ancient Babylon and explore its architectural and mythological charms.

2. Architectural Achievements of Ancient Babylon:

1. Hammurabi's Codex Pillars:

   In 1772 BC, during the reign of Hammurabi, ancient Babylonian architecture reached its peak. The most famous are the four stone pillars carved with the Code of Hammurabi, which not only bear witness to the glory of ancient Babylon, but also the earliest written legal code in human history.

2. Sky Garden:

   Known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Hanging Gardens are said to have been built by Nebuchadnezzar II to ease his wife's homesickness. This massive structure has been hailed as a marvel in the history of human gardens, showcasing the wisdom and skill of the ancient Babylonians.

3. Walls & Towers:

   The ancient city of Babylon was protected by a strong wall with towers at intervals to increase its defensive capabilities. After the fall of Neo-Babylon in 586 B.C., the walls and towers became witnesses of history.

3. Ancient Babylonian Myths and Legends:

1. Creation Myths:

   In ancient Babylonian mythology, Marduk, the god of creation, created the heavens and the earth. He defeated Tamris, the god of chaos, and established order in the world. This legend profoundly influenced the ancient Babylonians' understanding of the universe.

2. Flood Myths:

   Like other civilizations around the world, ancient Babylon had its own flood myth. Legend has it that the gods decided to exterminate humanity, and only Gilgamesh managed to escape the catastrophe. This story reflects the ancient Babylonians' thinking about disaster and survival.

3. Tanakht:

   Tanakht is one of the three goddesses of fate in ancient Babylonian mythology, who weaves the web of fate and determines the fate of the world. This legend shows the reverence and contemplation of fate of the ancient Babylonians.

IV. Conclusion:

Although the ancient Babylonian civilization has disappeared into the smoke of history, its architectural achievements and myths and legends have become precious treasures in the treasury of human civilization. From Hammurabi's Codex Pillars to the magnificent Hanging Gardens, from Marduk, the god of creation, to Tanakht, the goddess of fate, these are not just relics and stories of history, but also human understanding and reflection on the past. They are the crystallization of human ingenuity and our bridge to the future.