Ep 4. Uruk - City of Gilgamesh

In season 1 episode 4 of Cities of the Ancient World, viewers are taken back in time to ancient Mesopotamia to explore the city of Uruk, which was once ruled by the legendary figure of Gilgamesh. The episode begins with an overview of the city's history, which dates back more than 5,000 years. Viewers will learn about the various civilizations that have called Uruk home over the centuries, including the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians.

The host of the show takes viewers on a guided tour of Uruk, exploring the various ruins and artifacts that have been unearthed by archaeologists over the years. The first stop on the tour is the Eanna Temple, which was once one of the most important religious centers in the ancient world. Viewers will learn about the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorned the temple, and the various rituals that took place there.

Next, the host takes viewers to the ziggurat of Uruk, which was once one of the tallest structures in the world. Built by King Ur-Nammu in the 21st century BC, the ziggurat served as a center for religious and political activity in the city. Viewers will learn about the construction techniques used to build the ziggurat, and the various uses for the different levels.

The highlight of the episode comes when the host visits the palace of Gilgamesh. Though little remains of the palace today, the host uses historical records and literary texts to recreate what it might have looked like in its heyday. Viewers will hear tales of Gilgamesh's exploits, including his battles with the monster Humbaba and his quest for immortality.

Throughout the episode, viewers will also learn about the daily life of the people of Uruk. From the bustling markets and bazaars to the quiet residential neighborhoods, the host paints a vivid picture of what it was like to live in this ancient metropolis. Viewers will see examples of the city's art and architecture, and learn about the various industries that drove its economy.

As the episode comes to a close, the host reflects on the enduring legacy of Uruk and its most famous ruler, Gilgamesh. Though the city has been reduced to ruins, its influence can still be felt in the modern world. Viewers will be left with a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of this ancient civilization, and a desire to learn more about the wonders of the ancient world.