Iraq Restores Ziggurat of Ur With Ancient Materials
Why this is here: Workers are recreating the original bricks by taking samples from the ziggurat and matching the chemical materials and physical properties.
The Iraqi government began preservation work on the Ziggurat of Ur, a 5,000-year-old structure in southern Iraq. The ziggurat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces erosion from changing climate conditions. Workers are using mudbricks made from clay sourced near the ancient city, replicating the original materials and chemical properties.
The structure dates back to the 21st century BCE and once measured roughly 210 by 148 feet. Previous restorations occurred in the 6th century BCE under King Nabonidus and again under Saddam Hussein, but did not address all original brick layers. The current project focuses on the northern side, which has suffered significant damage from wind and sand.
About $382,000 funds the effort to protect the exposed upper sections. Archaeologist Khadim Hassoun Honaein notes the team prioritizes authenticity, differing from some restoration projects that use modern materials.
Scientists still do not know the ziggurat’s original height. Work to stabilize the monument continues.
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