Ancient Near East

Discovering the World of the Ancient Near East

Unveiling the Cradle of Civilization: A Journey to the Ancient Near East Travel back in time to a vibrant and dynamic era with this exploration of the ancient Near East. Often referred to as the "cradle of civilization," this region birthed some of humanity's earliest and most influential cultures. Our adventure begins by peering into the map, enco...

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Ancient Mesopotamia: Daily Life

Plaques such as this one were part of a door-locking system for important buildings in ancient Mesopotamia. The plaque was embedded into the doorjamb and then a peg was inserted into the hole. A hook or cord wrapped around the peg was covered with clay and secured the door....

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Ancient Babylonia - Schools

For the most part the only education that a young Babylonian might have received would have been of a scribal type. Those who were sent to school to train as a scribe had to be children of wealthy or influential parents. Boys were admitted and possibly girls as well. There is no doubt that rich women often had a lot of freedom and influence. (Bible...

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Ancient Mesopotamia: Mathematics and Measurement

During the earliest years of recorded history, the ancient Mesopotamians were experimenting with ways to count, measure, and solve mathematical problems. They were the first to give a number a place value and to recognize the concept of zero....

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Religion in the Ancient Middle East

The Sumerians believed that the forces of nature (rain, wind, floods) were alive. The people couldn't control these forces of nature, so they worshipped them as gods. The people also believed that they were living on Earth only to please the gods....

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Marriage in Ancient Mesopotamia and Babylonia

As the bride approaches the ceremonial altar holding on to the arm of her father, the groom nervously takes a peek at the scene surrounding him... Not far away are the gifts, which shortly will be exchanged. Family members stand proudly around in a festive atmosphere. Is this taking place in upstate New York, a tropical garden in Miami, or a quaint...

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