Location

Eridu

The first city, where reed-huts rose from the marshes.Here, at the edge of sweet water, civilization began.

Domains

Waters Wisdom

Description

Considered the first city in Sumerian tradition, located in southern Mesopotamia near the Persian Gulf. Sacred city of Enki.

Significance

Eridu represents the very point of origin for Mesopotamian civilization. Its temple to Enki (the Abzu shrine) was among the most ancient sacred sites in the world.

Symbols & Attributes

reed-hutwater-spring

Connections

Associated with Nanna Nanna's temple at Ur was rivaled only by Eridu as a religious center
Associated with Enki Patron deity of Eridu
Associated with Adapa Adapa served as sage and priest of Enki at Eridu

Sources & References

  • The Sumerians: Their History, Culture, and Character Kramer, Samuel Noah (1963)
  • ORACC (Open Richly Annotated Cuneiform Corpus) Visit