What Ancient City Was Founded on the Banks of the Euphrates River?

The ancient city founded on the banks of the Euphrates River was Babylon.

The Historic City of Babylon

Babylon, an iconic metropolis of the ancient world, rose to prominence on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in Mesopotamia, within what is now modern-day Iraq. Situated approximately 85 kilometres (53 miles) south of Baghdad, its strategic location on this vital waterway contributed significantly to its power and influence.

Key Features and Historical Significance

In antiquity, Babylon stood as one of the largest and most influential cities globally. Its rich history is intertwined with numerous legendary structures and significant events.

Notable Aspects of Ancient Babylon:

• Strategic Location: Positioned directly on the Euphrates River, which provided essential resources and facilitated extensive trade networks throughout Mesopotamia and beyond.
• Cultural and Political Hub: Babylon served as a major center for governance, law (notably under King Hammurabi), science, and culture in the ancient Near East for centuries.
• Engineering Prowess: The city was renowned for its advanced infrastructure, including impressive walls, temples, and irrigation systems.

Architectural Wonders

Babylon is perhaps most renowned for two specific architectural marvels that captured the imagination of the ancient world, as highlighted by historical accounts:

1. The Tower of Babel: This colossal ziggurat, a stepped pyramid structure, is famously mentioned in biblical narratives and was a monumental temple dedicated to the god Marduk. Its immense scale symbolized Babylon's ambition and religious devotion.
2. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon: Often listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these terraced gardens were described as a verdant oasis built by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his homesick wife. While their exact location and even their definitive existence are debated by some archaeologists, they remain a powerful testament to the perceived splendor and engineering capabilities of the city.

Geographical Context

The Euphrates River was indispensable to Babylon's development and prosperity, offering several critical advantages:

• Water for Agriculture: The river's waters were diverted through sophisticated canal systems, transforming the surrounding arid plains into fertile agricultural land, enabling the cultivation of crops that sustained the large urban population.
• Trade Routes: The Euphrates served as a crucial artery for riverine trade, connecting Babylon to other major cities and regions, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences.
• Natural Defense: The river itself provided a formidable natural barrier on one side, complementing the city's massive defensive walls and contributing to its security.

For more detailed information on Babylon's history and its profound connection to the Euphrates River, you can refer to reputable historical sources, such as the Britannica entry on Babylon.