The Babylonians

The Babylonians lived in ancient Mesopotamia, in the land we now call Iraq. Their great city was called Babylon. It had tall walls, beautiful gates, and busy markets. The Babylonians were known for their laws, science, and stories.

King Hammurabi

One of the most famous Babylonian kings was Hammurabi. He ruled about 3,800 years ago. Hammurabi wrote down a set of 282 laws for his people. These laws were carved onto a big stone pillar. This was one of the first times rules were written for everyone to see.

Hanging Gardens

Babylon was famous for its Hanging Gardens. People say a king built them to make his wife happy. The gardens had trees and flowers growing on high stone terraces. They were called one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. No one is sure today if they really existed.

Fun Facts

• The Babylonians were very good at math and astronomy.
• They studied the stars and made early calendars.
• Babylon was once the biggest city in the world.

Did You Know?

The Babylonians used a number system based on 60, which is why a circle has 360 degrees.