See Also: Esagila(encyclopedia)

Esagila (sh)




Temple complex in ancient Babylon dedicated to Marduk.

The huge edifice was 660 ft (202 m) long, with three vast courtyards surrounded by many chambers. It took centuries to construct; most of the work being done in the 6th century BC during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II. Its wealth was famous in antiquity, but by the time Babylon was excavated in 1899-1917 it had been thoroughly plundered.