Welcome in this famous gate known as Ishtar! Located in the middle of Berlin Germany, this beautiful building is a spectacle that provides the viewer a look into the historical city of Babylon. Known today as the Ishtar gate, this is one of the greatest examples of the art and monumental architectural achievements of the Babylonian empire which is documented to have been constructed in the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II in the sixth century BCE.

Understanding the Ishtar Gate

The Ishtar Gate was part of the eight gates planned for the city of Babylon that is in modern Iraq. This imposing structure provided a ceremonial way and as well as was an emblem of the power and piety of the city. The Ishtar Gate was so named because this gate was built to represent the deity of Ishtar and the godless of Babylon who was believed to be in charge of fertility and love.

The Architecture

From architectural point of view, the Ishtar Gate remained a wonder. Made of bricks made and painted bright blue, white and gold it shone under the Babalonian sun to attract the attention of everyone who was to pass the gate. The presented pattern of the glazed bricks was the mythological animals like lions and dragons and floral design signifying power/wealth.

The gate was very large with height measures slightly over 14 meters and included three arching gates. Such pathways were accompanied by towers , and the gates themselves were decorated by complex ornaments. The Ishtar Gate provided the best example of how the Babylonians engineered and created such pretty art at this gate.

Discovery and Relocation

The Babylonian gate, like other artifacts, was discovered by German archaeologists during the early 1900’s. It was closely reconstructed and moved to the house where it currently is in Berlin. Today, people can see this as a part of the UNESCO World Heritage situated in the Pergamon Museum; here, people can get true feel of the atmosphere of Babylon and feel the importance of its culture.

Exploring the Pergamon Museum

What will you find at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin? Well, such masterpiece as the Ishtar Gate doesn’t remain the unique discovery that can attract thousands of tourists from all over the world. The largest museum in the world holds a record number of exhibits from different civilizations and is a worthy guide to the evolution of world culture on different continents. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

The Pergamon Altar

The famous Pergamon Altar of the second century BCE is a large structure that gives the name to the museum. Pergamon also can be called ‘the city of one hundred curtains’ – as it was said, it was a masterpiece of Hellenistic period, which represented scenes from mythology and was placed in Pergamon, contemporary Turkey. Due to the design of its frieze and colossal size it is one of the wonders of ancient art.

Market Gate of Miletus

The other fascinating feature exhibited at the Pergamon Museum is the Market Gate of Miletus. This is ancient Roman gate that was situated at the entrance of what was an old city called Miletus in what today is Turkey. Its various details which are in the form of reliefs give a social insight of its inhabitants at the time of the Romans as well as the economic significance of this city.

Islamic Art Collection

The Islamic Art Collection of the museum reveals some exquisite arts of different period and origin. From the art of writing to paintings on ceramics and framings, this collection gives a beautiful painting of the Muslims.

The Ishtar Gate and the Parergamon Museum

That is why if you are planning the trip to Berlin one of the most valuable visit is Ishtar gate in the Pergamon Museum. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Plan Your Visit

Visit the websites to assess the current opening days and time for the museum and the current prices for tickets, new exhibitions, or events. The same way, it is advisable to find yourself an early bird to enable you to have quality time with the view without other people’s interference.

Guided Tours

Visiting a guided tour would also be of benefit in enjoying better understanding of its function and historical background of Ishtar Gate, and other artifacts in the museum. Professional guides can be helpful, and it’s always interesting to hear something new from a guide.

Further Exploration in Berlin

However time allows it, when in Berlin it is advised to visit other cultures that are located in this historic city. From the horrible Berlin Wall to the magnificent Brandenburg Gate, this pulsating city of Berlin is full of history and modernization.

Conclusion

Otherwise, the Ishtar gate in Berlin, Germany, can give the idea about the great Babylonia. The historical site exhibits astonishing architectural design and elaborate representations that clearly depict different facets of the society. And at the Pergamon Museum you find a multitude of cultures from different civilizations and withing the civilization, additional information about unfamiliar history of humanity. Therefore – set objectives, start a process, and – plunge yourself into the mysterious world of Ishtar Gate!