The ruins of Ancient Mesopotamia, which lies between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in modern Iraq, are often considered by many researchers to be the cradle of civilization.
Sumer was the earliest culture to arise in the region, becoming the world’s first urban civilization. They have provided archaeologists with the earliest evidence of writing, literature, law codes, and the use of the plow in farming.
The Sumerian City of Ur
Among the Sumerians’ greatest cities was Ur, whose origins stretch back to 3800 BCE.
By 2500 BCE, the city was the largest in the region and served as the seat of power for the entirety of southern Mesopotamia. The revered city became a center of culture and learning for the Sumerians before falling to the Elamites around 1940 BCE.
The Early Excavations of Ur
Not long after the end of World War I, a British researcher and archaeologist, H.R. Hall, who was working on behalf of the British Museum, carried out excavations at the ancient city.
In the years that followed, a plethora of treasures were unearthed from a royal cemetery dating back over 4,500 years. Here are some of the most exquisite finds from Ur.
Golden Vessel with Flower Motif
This unique cup which lay beside its former owner in the cemetery of Ur, is made from electrum, or a mix of gold and silver.
Its beautiful shape and design, accompanied by the flower motif at its base, is a beautiful example of the capabilities of Sumerian artisans.
Golden Wreath Necklace
This necklace consists of two unique parts: a wreath made of lapis lazuli and tiny individual gold leaves.
The unique discovery was unearthed from the “Great Death Pit” in the city of Ur. It’s thought items such as this were given to women to accompany them during their journey to the netherworld.
Lapis Lazuli Vessel
This small lapis lazuli cup was found in one of the many tombs at Ur.
According to researchers, just like in Egypt, lapis was revered in Sumer, and kings sent traders as far away as Afghanistan to retrieve the precious stone.
