Map of the Old Assyrian Empire

Between Cities & Kingdoms -The Foundations of Imperial Power

Illustration

Simeon Netchev
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published on 18 January 2022
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This map illustrates the political landscape of the Ancient Near East around c. 1700 BCE, during the Old Assyrian period and shortly before the rise of the Babylonian Empire under Hammurabi (reigned c. 1792–1750 BCE). It highlights key regional powers, shifting alliances, and the emergence of Assur as a significant force in Upper Mesopotamia.

At this time, the city-state of Assur, located on the Upper Tigris, was evolving from a commercial hub into a growing political and military power. Assyrian merchants established far-reaching trade colonies, including in Kanesh (modern Kültepe), anchoring a long-distance commercial network that shaped the region's economic dynamics. Meanwhile, in central Anatolia, a collection of local principalities began to unify under King Anitta of Kussara (reigned c. 1740 BCE)—the first ruler known to have used the title "Great King"—laying the foundations for the Early Hittite Empire. Elsewhere, older powers like Eshnunna and Mari (under Zimri-Lim, reigned c. 1775–1761 BCE) were in decline, while Babylon, under Hammurabi, was consolidating power that would soon transform the political order of southern Mesopotamia.

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About the Author

Simeon Netchev
Simeon is a freelance visual designer and history teacher, passionate about the human stories that shape the past. He believes every image should tell a story and invite interaction, while every map should lead on a journey — blending imagination with e

Cite This Work

APA Style

Netchev, S. (2022, January 18). Map of the Old Assyrian Empire. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/15146/map-of-the-old-assyrian-empire/

Chicago Style

Netchev, Simeon. "Map of the Old Assyrian Empire." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified January 18, 2022. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/15146/map-of-the-old-assyrian-empire/.

MLA Style

Netchev, Simeon. "Map of the Old Assyrian Empire." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 18 Jan 2022, https://www.worldhistory.org/image/15146/map-of-the-old-assyrian-empire/. Web. 25 Jun 2025.

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