Image from the Chimera Costumes archive
The City
Ur was located in what is now southern Iraq, near the modern town of Nasiriyah, in the flat alluvial plain of ancient Mesopotamia. In its peak during the Third Dynasty of Ur (roughly 2112–2004 BCE), it was among the most important cities in the ancient world, with a population estimated at 65,000 or more — making it one of the world's largest cities at the time. By Ea-Nasir's time around 1750 BCE, the city had declined from its peak but remained commercially significant, particularly as a hub for the Persian Gulf copper trade.
The Great Ziggurat
Ur's most famous surviving structure is its ziggurat — a massive stepped pyramid-like structure dedicated to the moon god Nanna. The ziggurat of Ur, built during the Third Dynasty around 2100 BCE, measures approximately 64 × 45 metres at its base and originally stood about 30 metres tall. The first two levels are substantially intact and can be visited today in modern Iraq. It was the dominant visual feature of ancient Ur, visible across the flat Mesopotamian plain for many miles, and served as the administrative and religious centre of the city.
The Royal Graves
The Royal Graves of Ur, excavated by Leonard Woolley in the 1920s and 1930s, are among the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Sixteen royal tombs dating to approximately 2600 BCE contained extraordinary grave goods: gold and silver vessels, lapis lazuli jewellery, musical instruments, and — in some graves — the bodies of dozens of court servants who appear to have died alongside their rulers, either voluntarily or through some form of ritual. The wealth and sophistication of these graves testifies to the commercial success of Ur at its height.
The Excavations of Ur
Leonard Woolley's excavations at Ur, conducted between 1922 and 1934 under joint sponsorship of the British Museum and the University of Pennsylvania, were among the most important archaeological campaigns of the 20th century. They uncovered the Royal Graves, large residential quarters, temple complexes, and — crucially — extensive archives of commercial clay tablets. The tablets found in what is believed to be Ea-Nasir's house, including the Nanni complaint letter, were part of this excavation. The tablets are now split between the British Museum and the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
In what is now southern Iraq, near the modern town of Nasiriyah. The site is located in the flat alluvial plain of ancient Mesopotamia.
Yes — the site is located in modern Iraq and has been open to visitors. The ziggurat of Ur is partially restored and accessible. Travel conditions in the region should be checked before planning a visit.
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