Magnificent ancient Mesopotamian city of Babylon designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site

Baghdad, Iraq, 10 July 2019 - There's been a real buzz in the world these past few days about Iraq's rich culture, not least because of the inscription of the magnificent ancient Mesopotamian city of Babylon on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Located in Babel Governorate, about 80 kilometres south of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, Babylon is revered for its unique archaeological sites. Its Hanging Gardens were one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, while the grand Ishtar Gate replica and the historical statue of the Lion of Babylon are mesmerizing sights to behold.

Appreciating the splendour of one of Iraq's most significant and renowned sites, the Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, extended a heartfelt message of congratulations to the people of Iraq:

UN Iraq SRSG Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert (@JeanineHennis): Congratulations to #Iraq on @UNESCO's listing of #Babylon as #WorldHeritage Site. I visited the impressive ruins a few months ago - a magnificent place telling of the rich history of this magnificent country. pic.twitter.com/60Kc9EyZ0W

— UNAMI (@UNIraq) July 5, 2019

The UNESCO office in Iraq also conveyed felicitations to the people of Iraq on this achievement:

#UNESCO #Iraq would like to extend their congratulations on the inscription of #Babylon to the #WorldHeritage List. #Baku #43WHC pic.twitter.com/LH4XVdNpNN

— UNESCO Iraq Office (@UNESCOIraq) July 5, 2019

Photo gallery: UNAMI PIO/Sarmad Al-Safy