Purposes of Ancient Monuments: Hanging Gardens of Babylon and Colossus of Rhodes
Ancient monuments such as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Colossus of Rhodes served multiple purposes ranging from commemorative to practical functions.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon
- Empire and Colonialism: Associated with the Neo-Babylonian Empire, the gardens showcased the wealth and power of King Nebuchadnezzar II around 600 BCE, who built them for his wife Amytis.
- Revolutions and Transformations: They represented an architectural revolution by introducing innovative irrigation techniques, symbolising the transformation of arid landscapes into lush greenery.
- Trade Networks and Economic History: The gardens drew traders and tourists to Babylon, enhancing its reputation as a significant economic hub in the ancient world.
- Religion and Belief Systems: Although not explicitly religious, they illustrated the importance of nature in Mesopotamian culture, reflecting a connection to fertility gods.
- Technological and Scientific Developments: The use of advanced engineering to create tiered terraces highlights the ancient advancements in hydraulic engineering.
- Global Interconnectedness: The gardens became a symbol of Babylonian culture, influencing the aesthetic and architectural ideals of neighbouring civilisations.
- Comparative Civilisations: Compared to other wonders, such as the Pyramids of Giza, they signified the diversity of achievements in ancient architectural styles.
- Socio-Cultural and Political Reasons: The gardens served as a political statement of the king's capability and a demonstration of luxury and comfort to the ruling elite.
Colossus of Rhodes
- Empire and Colonialism: Erected in 280 BCE to commemorate Rhodes' victory over Cyprus, it symbolised the island's dominance and defence against foreign powers.
- Revolutions and Transformations: The statue represented the transformation in monumental sculpture, transitioning from functional to artistic, inspiring subsequent generations of artists.
- Trade Networks and Economic History: As a port city, Rhodes benefited economically; the Colossus attracted merchants and tourists, boosting its trade reputation.
- Religion and Belief Systems: The statue was dedicated to Helios, the sun god, integrating spirituality and civic pride into a monumental artefact.
- Technological and Scientific Developments: Its construction involved advanced techniques in bronze casting and engineering, showcasing the technological prowess of the ancient Greeks.
- Global Interconnectedness: The Colossus became a reference point in artistic expression and political symbolism, linking Rhodes with other cultural narratives of power.
- Comparative Civilisations: Compared to other monumental statues, like the Statue of Zeus, it exemplified Greece's unique artistic vision and civic identity.
- Socio-Cultural and Political Reasons: The statue served as a testament to the unity and strength of the Rhodesians, embodying their resilience and pride.
