Mod. 3 - Neo-Babylonian Culture and the Ishtar Gate and Processional Way, c. 575 B.C.E.

Neo-Babylonian Empire

A period during the late 7th century when the Babylonians rose to power, known for their dominance in the Near East.

Nebuchadnezzar

A prominent king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, reigning from 604-561 B.C.E., known for his architectural projects including the Ishtar Gate.

Ishtar Gate

The most elaborate inner city gate of Babylon, covered in lapis lazuli glazed bricks featuring reliefs of lions and cattle.

Hanging Gardens of Babylon

Legendary gardens supposedly built by Nebuchadnezzar for his wife, possibly a myth since no definitive archaeological evidence has been found.

Assyrian Empire

An ancient empire that dominated the Near East until around 600 B.C.E., affected by military pressure from the Medes and Babylonians.

Chronology of Mesopotamia

A complex timeline that includes various peoples, places, and empires that can lead to confusion regarding historical events.

Kassites

A group that ruled parts of Mesopotamia and thrived between the fall of the Old Babylonians and the rise of the Neo-Babylonians.

King Hammurabi

A well-known ruler of Babylon from 1792 to 1750 B.C.E., famous for his code of laws.

Lapis Lazuli

A deep blue semi-precious stone used in the decoration of the Ishtar Gate, known for its jewel-like appearance.

Relief processions

Artistic depictions in which figures are carved in relief to portray various scenes, as seen on the Ishtar Gate with lions and cattle.