Iraq Initiates Restoration of Ancient Ziggurat of Ur Amid Climate Threats
Iraq has embarked on a significant restoration project for the ancient Ziggurat of Ur, a 4,000-year-old temple, to combat the threats posed by climate change. The initiative, reported by Shafaq News, involves using locally made bricks and traditional building methods to restore the temple's first level, its three main staircases, and repair cracks on the second level. The project also includes reconstruction work on the third level based on archaeological evidence. This marks the seventh major restoration effort since the ziggurat's construction under the Third Dynasty of Ur around 2112 BCE. The restoration is expected to be completed by July 2026. The site, originally built in honor of the Mesopotamian moon god Nanna, faces erosion due to harsh weather conditions, increasing soil salinity, and wind and sand dunes. The Iraqi government has allocated an initial budget of $382,000 for the restoration. 
