The Euphrates River

The Euphrates River is the longest river in Western Asia. It is about 1,740 miles long. The river starts in the mountains of Turkey and flows through Syria and Iraq. Along with the Tigris River, it waters the land of Mesopotamia.

The Gift of the River

The Euphrates River brought life to a very dry part of the world. People first learned how to farm in the rich soil along its banks. They grew wheat, barley, and dates. They dug canals to bring water to their fields. This helped them grow more food than they needed, so they could build cities.

Cities and Stories

Many famous old cities sat on the Euphrates River. One of them was Babylon, which was once the biggest city in the world. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon were said to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The river is mentioned in many old stories and holy books. It has been important to people for more than 6,000 years.

Fun Facts

• The Euphrates and Tigris join together before reaching the sea.
• The river's name in Greek means 'good to cross over.'
• Babylon had walls so wide that chariots could race along the top.

Did You Know?

Some people believe that the Garden of Eden, from the Bible, was near the Euphrates River.