About
The Babylon Archaeological Site lies near Hillah in Babil Governorate, Iraq, on the banks of the Euphrates. It preserves the ruins of the ancient city of Babylon, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For anyone interested in the history of Mesopotamia, it is one of the best-known places in the region to see that history on the ground.
What you will see
The ruins cover a large area and include the remains of palaces, temples, and the famous Processional Way. Walking through the site gives a sense of how the city was laid out, with its monumental structures spread across open ground. Much of what survives is in the form of foundations and walls, so it helps to come with some idea of what each part was used for.
Planning a visit
- Location: the site is in Hillah, a town in Babil Governorate, so it makes a natural stop for those already exploring the area.
- Setting: the ruins are outdoors, so comfortable footwear and sun protection are sensible for walking across the grounds.
- Background reading: a little knowledge of the city's history before you go will make the remains easier to interpret on site.
Visitors interested in the wider story of the region may find the site a rewarding part of a longer trip through Iraq, where other historic places and the surrounding landscape of the Euphrates valley add context to what you see at Babylon.