The Ur Excavations

The Ur excavations refer to archaeological digs at the ancient Sumerian city of Ur in modern-day Iraq, primarily conducted in the early 20th century by Sir Leonard Woolley. These excavations uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including royal tombs, jewelry, and tablets, revealing details about Ur’s history, culture, and social structure around 2100 BCE. The findings helped scholars understand early Mesopotamian civilization, its art, religion, and governance. The site remains significant for its well-preserved archaeological layers, providing a valuable window into one of the world's earliest urban societies.