Near eastern antiquities and paintings that explore the myth and reality of the ancient city, the extent of its influence and the way in which the Babylonian myth grew out of its historical reality….

Jean Joubert – Edification de la tour de Babel, © Musée du Louvre/M. Beck-Coppola


Through the centuries, the name “Babylon” has continued to ring with deep significance far and wide. Indeed, no city in world history has been more envied and feared, admired and reviled. And yet, beneath all of its trappings, from the most prestigious to the most vilified, Babylon is much more than a myth.

This unprecedented exhibition brings together a rich and varied treasure trove of nearly 400 works, on loan from collections in 13 countries, with the aim of reconciling the legend of Babylon with its history. Spanning five millennia (from the end of the 2nd millennium B.C. to the beginning of the 20th century), it pays tribute both to the historical and cultural importance of this ancient city and the way in which its reality was later transformed into the mythical Babylon.

© RMN/ G. Blot

Here’s all the essential information for the Babylon exhibition at the Louvre

When: 14th March – 2nd June 2008
Where: Hall Napoleon at the Louvre, jardin des Tuileries, Paris 1st arrondissement. Métro Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (lines 1 & 7)
Opening hours: open every day except Tuesdays from 9am – 5.30pm (10pm Wednesdays and Fridays)
Admission: included in the price of entry to the main museum, 9 euros or 6 euros after 6pm on Wednesdays and Fridays
More information: on the Louvre site here
Babylon Wikipedia page: here

Bigger map here