The Hanging Gardens of Babylon: The Legendary Rise of Ancient Wonders
Human history has witnessed the unique architectural and engineering achievements of many civilizations. In Mesopotamia, one of the greatest civilizations of the ancient world, Babylon, the capital of the Babylonian Empire, hosted a legendary structure built under the command of the goddess Semiramis: the Hanging Gardens.
Historical Background:
B.C. Babylonian King II, who reigned around 600 BC. Nebuchadnezzar's wife was the legendary queen Semiramis, who is considered the founder of the Hanging Gardens. However, written sources about the Hanging Gardens are limited and pinpointing historical facts has been challenging. The story is based on the writings of the Greek historian Strabo and so in some ways straddles the line between mythology and reality.
Construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon:
It is said that the Hanging Gardens, unlike ordinary gardens, were built on a high pyramid of terraces. This terrace pyramid attracted attention with its height and irregular structure. Although there are opinions that the gardens were built next to the ziggurats (Babel towers), definitive information on this subject is lacking.
Fascinating Architecture:
The most striking feature of the Hanging Gardens was the dense greenery and colorful flowers visible on their sky-high terraces. These terraces had large areas where various trees and plants could be planted. Water was carried to the lower terraces of these gardens, creating a sort of "hanging garden" feel.
Water Engineering:
Babylon was historically known for its excellent water engineering systems. The Hanging Gardens' irrigation system maximized these engineering feats. In particular, there is no evidence of the use of screw pumps or other mechanical devices in transporting water to the higher terraces of the gardens. However, it is thought that water can be transported to the terraces using irrigation systems through the water between the steps.
Semiramis and the Legend:
The construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon is largely based on the mythological figure of queen Semiramis. Semiramis' husband II. It is thought that he built these magnificent gardens in order to satisfy his longing for Nebuchadnezzar and to surprise him. However, some historians believe that this story is based on a mythological element and are skeptical about whether the Hanging Gardens existed.
The Destruction of Babylon:
The existence of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon became uncertain with the collapse of the Babylonian Empire and these fascinating structures disappeared over time. In the following years, Babylon witnessed many different civilizations changing hands, and as a result, the ruins of the Hanging Gardens disappeared underground over time.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are remembered as a magical story in which mythological and historical elements are intertwined. Although their historical accuracy cannot be precisely determined, these legendary gardens are a reminder of how fascinating and mysterious great structures in human history can be. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are both an architecturally fascinating legend and a testimony to humanity's ingenuity and engineering prowess.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, there is not a single picture of the gardens. Evidence for their existence comes from the writings of ancient historians such as Josephus, Strabo, and Diodorus Siculus. These writings provide detailed descriptions of the gardens, leading us to believe that they are truly a magnificent sight.
Here are some artistic depictions of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon:Opens in new window
archeofili.com
This painting is one of the most iconic depictions of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It was painted by the Dutch painter Maerten van Heemskerck in the 16th century. The picture shows a garden rising in terraces and filled with various plants. Behind the garden, the city of Babylon is visible.Opens in new window
www.worldhistory.org
This painting is a more modern depiction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It was painted by French painter Jean-Léon Gérôme in the 19th century. The picture shows a corner of the gardens and a group of people. The Euphrates River is visible in the background .Opens in new window
apelasyon.com
This image is a computer-generated image of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The picture shows a possible reconstruction of the gardens. The gardens rise in terraces and are full of various plants. In the background, the city of Babylon is visible.
These pictures give us an idea of what the Hanging Gardens of Babylon might have looked like. While we may never know what they actually looked like, we can be sure that it was a spectacular sight.
Why Are the Hanging Gardens of Babylon Important?
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and are therefore important. These gardens are a marvel of human engineering and the beauty of nature. The legend of the gardens continues to fascinate artists, writers and dreamers for centuries .
Here are some reasons why the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are important:
- It is a marvel of engineering: The gardens had a complex structure, rising in terraces and fed by an irrigation system. This indicates a highly developed engineering skill in the ancient world.
- Natural beauty: The gardens were a lush green oasis filled with a variety of plants and trees. This would have been quite an impressive sight in the arid lands of Babylon.
- Symbolic importance: The gardens symbolized the power and wealth of the Babylonian Empire. At the same time, King II. It was also seen as a sign of Nebuchadnezzar's love for his wife.
- Cultural impact: The legend of the gardens has been featured in art, literature and music for centuries . This shows that the Hanging Gardens of Babylon have an important place in world culture.
Although there is no conclusive evidence of the existence of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, its legend and story have continued to fascinate people for centuries. These gardens are considered one of the most mysterious and fascinating structures of the Ancient World.
In addition:
- It is thought that the gardens appeared as an oasis in the arid climate of Babylon and provided coolness and peace to the inhabitants of the city.
- Since the construction and maintenance of gardens required a large number of people and resources, they were also seen as a display of royal power and wealth.
- The Hanging Gardens of Babylon have become the symbol of Babylon, one of the most important cities of the Ancient World.
The mystery and beauty of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon make them one of the most intriguing and unforgettable places in world history.
