Ancient Near East

Ancient Mesopotamians believed ghosts caused illness, even affecting soldiers returning from war.

The Maccabean Revolt, a pivotal uprising in ancient Judea, symbolizes the struggle for religious freedom against oppressive forces.

Explore the history, culture, and influence of the Philistines, the ancient sea people known for their conflicts with the Israelites.

Dive into the history of Canaan, an ancient region whose civilizations laid the foundation for the cultures of the Near East.

Explore the rich history of Palestine, a region with ancient civilizations and a profound cultural heritage that shaped the world.

Before the rise of unified kingdoms, the ancient cities of Sumeria were founded, forming a network of trade and culture recognized as the world’s oldest Empire.

By 4500 BCE, humans settled in Mesopotamia, soon developing the region into the cradle of civilization.

Before the Amorites, laws were mostly passed down through tradition and decided by judges based on past cases. However, during Hammurabi’s rule around 1792-1750 BCE, written laws became more common. Hammurabi, a warrior king of the Amorite dynasty, is best known for his law code inscribed on a black diorite stela, which is well-preserved and … Read more

In the ancient world, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus stood as a testament to the power and ambition of its ruler, Mausolus. This magnificent structure, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, captivated the imagination of people across the Mediterranean region and beyond. The Mausoleum’s exquisite architecture, intricate sculptures, and rich historical significance continue … Read more

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon stand as one of the most captivating and enigmatic wonders of the ancient world, captivating the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike for centuries. These fabled gardens, purportedly built by the great Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II, have been the subject of intense debate and speculation, with their very existence challenged … Read more

Diverse tools for trade, warfare, and innovation empowered successful Bronze Age cultures in the Mediterranean and Near East.