Ashur (city)

Ashur was an ancient city located in present-day Iraq, known as one of the original capitals of the Assyrian Empire. Founded around 2500 BCE, it held significant religious and political importance. The city was named after the god Ashur, the chief deity of the Assyrians, and featured impressive temples and palaces. Ashur thrived until its decline in the 7th century BCE, eventually becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich archaeology. Its ruins provide valuable insights into Assyrian culture, governance, and craftsmanship, reflecting a civilization that greatly influenced ancient Mesopotamia.