The Pergamon Museum, located in Berlin, Germany, is one of the most renowned museums in the world. It houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including those from Babylon, one of the oldest cities in the world. The Babylonian artifacts, which date back to the 7th century BCE, are among the most fascinating pieces in the museum. This article will explore the history and significance of the Babylonian artifacts in the Pergamon Museum.
History of Babylon
Babylon was an ancient city located in what is now modern-day Iraq. It was founded in 1894 BCE by the Sumerian King Hammurabi, and was the capital of the Neo-Babylonian Empire from 626 BCE to 539 BCE. During this time, Babylon was the largest city in the world, and it was renowned for its wealth, grandeur, and sophistication. It was a hub of trade and commerce, and a major center of learning and culture.
The city was destroyed by the Persian King Cyrus the Great in 539 BCE, and the Babylonian Empire eventually fell. Despite its destruction, Babylon left a lasting legacy on the world, particularly in the form of its architecture and art. The city was renowned for its impressive walls and temples, and its artifacts have been preserved in museums and archaeological sites around the world.
Babylonian Artifacts in the Pergamon Museum
The Pergamon Museum is home to an impressive collection of Babylonian artifacts, which date back to the 7th century BCE. The artifacts include sculptures, jewelry, pottery, and other items that were used in everyday life. The museum also houses some of the city’s most iconic monuments, including the Ishtar Gate, the Processional Way, and the Code of Hammurabi. These artifacts provide an insight into the grandeur and sophistication of the Babylonian Empire.
The Ishtar Gate
The Ishtar Gate is one of the most iconic monuments in the museum. It was built in 575 BCE by King Nebuchadnezzar II and was decorated with images of animals and gods from the Babylonian pantheon. The gate was constructed from blue-glazed bricks and was meant to be a grand entrance to the city. It is one of the best-preserved monuments from the Babylonian Empire, and it is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Babylonian craftsmen.
The Processional Way
The Processional Way is a grand path that was constructed in the 6th century BCE. It was used for religious processions and festivals, and it was decorated with reliefs of gods, kings, and animals. The reliefs provide an insight into the beliefs and customs of the Babylonian people. The Processional Way is a remarkable example of ancient engineering, and it is a testament to the skill of the Babylonian craftsmen.
The Code of Hammurabi
The Code of Hammurabi is a set of laws that were written in 1754 BCE by King Hammurabi. It is considered to be one of the earliest sets of laws in the world, and it is an important source of information about the Babylonian legal system. The code is inscribed on a stele that is on display in the Pergamon Museum, and it provides an insight into the structure and function of the Babylonian government.
Conclusion
The Babylonian artifacts in the Pergamon Museum provide an insight into the grandeur and sophistication of the Babylonian Empire. The Ishtar Gate, the Processional Way, and the Code of Hammurabi are all remarkable examples of ancient engineering and artistry. These artifacts are a testament to the skill and artistry of the Babylonian craftsmen, and they are a valuable source of information about the history and culture of the Babylonian people.