City of Culture 2600 BC: Early Mesopotamian History and Archaeology at Abu Salabikh

The City of Culture, 2600 BC presents the city of Abu Salabikh in south Iraq, first investigated in the 1960s and excavated in the 1970s and 1980s. It combines archaeology and textual data to create a vivid image of city life in 2600 BC, highlighting its architecture, agricultural and industrial enterprises, and social structure. Cities were the defining components of early Mesopotamia, belonging to a single cultural order and generating a vibrant but varied and innovative world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2024
Publisher: Archaeopress

The City of Culture, dating back to 2600 BC, unveils the hidden treasures beneath the archaeological site of Abu Salabikh in south Iraq. Initially explored in the 1960s and extensively excavated in the 1970s and 1980s, this remarkable city emerges from the tangible evidence on the ground. Through a comprehensive analysis of the material remains, it sheds light on the city's vibrant past, illuminated by its extensive library of literary and lexical texts, as well as documents from institutional administration. The archaeology and textual data harmoniously complement each other, painting a vivid picture of the city's architecture, agricultural and industrial enterprises, and social structure. This rich tapestry is further enriched by integrating it with our broader understanding of south Mesopotamia during this time, as well as the world view provided by the rich body of Sumerian literature, encompassing myths, epics, religious texts, and even homespun secular philosophy. This comprehensive account offers a glimpse into the daily life of one city, revealing the profound impact it had on the early Mesopotamian civilization.

Cities played a pivotal role in the early development of Mesopotamia, serving as the epicenters of economic, social, political, and cultural activities. With their shared languages and traditions, these urban centers formed a cohesive cultural order, akin to other similar groupings of urban centers in Greece, Italy, and China. The rivalry and emulation fostered within these cities led to a vibrant and diverse world, characterized by innovation and creativity.

The book concludes with a broader perspective, exploring "The Land" (kalam) during the pre-imperial Early Dynastic era and assessing the nature of the early Mesopotamian urban landscape. It sheds light on the social, economic, and political dynamics that shaped these cities, providing valuable insights into the complex tapestry of ancient civilization.

In conclusion, The City of Culture, dating back to 2600 BC, offers a captivating journey into the past, shedding light on the hidden treasures of Abu Salabikh and providing a comprehensive understanding of the early Mesopotamian urban world. Through a meticulous analysis of material remains and a rich tapestry of textual data, the book paints a vivid picture of the city's architecture, agriculture, industry, and social structure. By integrating this information with our broader knowledge of south Mesopotamia and the rich body of Sumerian literature, it offers a holistic view of city life in 2600 BC. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of ancient Mesopotamia.

Weight: 870g
Dimension: 203 x 275 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803276694