What were the major achievements of the Mesopotamian city of Babylon?

The Mesopotamian city of Babylon, located in present-day Iraq, had several major achievements that greatly influenced ancient civilizations.

One of the most significant achievements of Babylon was the development of a complex legal system known as the Code of Hammurabi. This code, created by King Hammurabi around 1754 BCE, consisted of 282 laws that covered various aspects of daily life, including trade, property rights, marriage, and criminal justice. It aimed to establish justice and protect the weak from the powerful, setting a precedent for future legal systems.

Babylon also made remarkable advancements in architecture and engineering. The city was renowned for its impressive structures, including the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, which were considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These gardens were a marvel of engineering, featuring terraced gardens with a complex irrigation system that allowed for the cultivation of various plants and trees.

Furthermore, Babylon was a center of intellectual and scientific achievements. The city was home to the renowned Library of Ashurbanipal, which housed a vast collection of clay tablets containing important literary, historical, and scientific texts. Babylonian scholars made significant contributions to mathematics, developing a sophisticated number system based on the concept of 60, which is still used today for measuring time and angles.

In addition, Babylon played a crucial role in the development of astronomy. Babylonian astronomers meticulously observed the movements of celestial bodies and created the first known star catalogs. They also developed a calendar based on lunar cycles, which influenced later civilizations in their understanding of timekeeping.

Overall, the major achievements of the Mesopotamian city of Babylon include the establishment of a comprehensive legal system, remarkable architectural feats, intellectual contributions in literature and mathematics, and advancements in astronomy. These achievements left a lasting impact on ancient civilizations and continue to influence various aspects of modern society.