The Babylonian civilization was an ancient Mesopotamian civilization that thrived in the

region of Babylonia, located in present-day Iraq, from around 1894 BCE to 539 BCE. The
Babylonians are known for their contributions to various fields such as mathematics,
astronomy, law, and literature. Here are some key aspects of Babylonian civilization:

1. Location and Timeline: The Babylonian civilization was centered around the city of
Babylon, which became a major cultural and political hub in Mesopotamia. The civilization
reached its peak during the reign of Hammurabi, who ruled from 1792 BCE to 1750 BCE.

2. Hammurabi's Code: One of the most famous achievements of the Babylonians was the
creation of Hammurabi's Code, a set of laws inscribed on a stele that governed various
aspects of Babylonian society. The code is known for its principle of "an eye for an eye"
and is considered one of the earliest known legal codes in history.

3. Mathematics: The Babylonians made significant advancements in mathematics,

particularly in the development of a sophisticated numerical system based on the number
60. They were also skilled in geometry and algebra, with their mathematical knowledge
influencing later civilizations, including the Greeks.

4. Astronomy: Babylonian astronomers were among the first to study the movements of
celestial bodies and develop a system of astrology. They created one of the earliest known
lunar calendars and made important observations of the stars and planets.

5. Literature: Babylonian literature is rich and diverse, with famous works such as the Epic
of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest known works of literature in the world. The epic tells the
story of a legendary king and his quest for immortality.

6. Religion: The Babylonians practiced a polytheistic religion with a pantheon of gods and
goddesses. The most important deity was Marduk, the patron god of Babylon. Temples
played a central role in religious life, and priests held significant power and influence.

7. Decline: The Babylonian civilization eventually fell to the Persian Empire in 539 BCE
when the city of Babylon was conquered by King Cyrus the Great. Despite its decline, the
legacy of the Babylonian civilization continued to influence later cultures and civilizations
in the region.

Overall, the Babylonian civilization was a major cultural and intellectual center in ancient
Mesopotamia, known for its contributions to law, mathematics, astronomy, literature, and
religion.