The Library of Ashurbanipal (circa 7th century BCE)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_of_A...

The Library of Ashurbanipal, also known as the "Royal Library of Nineveh," was a magnificent and ancient library located in the city of Nineveh, in what is now modern-day Iraq. It is considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the ancient Near East.

Key facts about the Library of Ashurbanipal:

Ashurbanipal's Reign: The library was established during the reign of King Ashurbanipal (circa 669-630 BCE) of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. He was known for his interest in scholarship and the collection of ancient texts.

Vast Collection: The library housed an extensive collection of cuneiform clay tablets, which contained texts on a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, mathematics, science, medicine, religion, and law. These tablets provided valuable insights into the culture, society, and knowledge of ancient Mesopotamia.

Tablets in Multiple Languages: The library contained texts written in various languages, including Akkadian, Sumerian, Elamite, Hittite, and more. This multilingual collection was a testament to the diversity of languages and cultures within the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

Curation and Organization: The library's collection was curated and organized, with cataloging systems and labels used to keep track of the vast number of tablets. This level of organization and preservation was a remarkable feat for its time.

Historical Significance: The library's texts provided valuable historical information about the Assyrian Empire, as well as insights into the history and culture of neighboring regions. The tablets included literary works like the Epic of Gilgamesh, as well as practical documents such as legal codes and astronomical records.

Rediscovery: The library was lost to history after the fall of Nineveh, but it was rediscovered in the mid-19th century by archaeologists. Many of the tablets were transported to various museums and institutions worldwide, and they continue to be studied by scholars.

The Library of Ashurbanipal is a testament to the ancient world's commitment to knowledge, scholarship, and the preservation of texts. Its discovery and the subsequent study of its contents have provided invaluable insights into the history and culture of ancient Mesopotamia and the broader ancient Near East.