Beginning

I did not (and still don't) know a lot about Near Eastern culture. Thankfully - Charlotte our docent was extremely familiar with the topic and a good tutor. She has just retired from the American University of Paris. These cultures were among the first city/state organized civilizations. Long before the first empires would come about and organize the World. Chief among the early rulers is Gudea - who was a master builder and conqueror (as you can see from this stone engraving). Lots of symbolism for the cultural connection to earth and the sun & moon. Geographically we are talking about modern day Iraq and Persia. Unfortunately the southern section (and origins) lacked stone so much of recorded history is gone.