What was Dur-Sharrukin?

Dur-Sharrukin was a city built by Sargon II of the Neo-Assyrian Empire as the new capital. It was abandoned shortly after Sargon II's death and the capital moved to Nineveh.

When was Dur-Sharrukin built?

Dur-Sharrukin was built between 717-706 BCE.

Why was Dur-Sharrukin abandoned?

Dur-Sharrukin was abandoned after Sargon II was killed in battle and the people thought this was a bad omen. Further, Sargon II's son, Sennacherib, hated his father and so ordered the city abandoned and all its treasures moved to Nineveh.

What does the name Dur-Sharrukin mean?

Dur-Sharrukin means "Fortress of Sargon" as it was designed and commissioned by the Neo-Assyrian king Sargon II.

Dur-Sharrukin

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Definition

Dur-Sharrukin (modern Khorsabad, Iraq) was a city built by Sargon II of Assyria (r. 722-705 BCE) as his new capital between 717-706 BCE. The name means Fortress of Sargon and the building project became the king's near obsession as soon as it was conceived. He did not live long enough to enjoy it, however, as he died in 705 BCE.

More about: Dur-Sharrukin

Timeline

722 BCE - 705 BCE
Reign of Sargon II of Assyria.
717 BCE - 707 BCE
Construction of the city of Dur-Sharrukin, decreed by Sargon II.
713 BCE - 710 BCE
Sargon II personally oversees construction of Dur-Sharrukin.
706 BCE
Sargon II moves into his new palace at Dur-Sharrukin, city is capital of Assyrian Empire (replacing Kalhu).
705 BCE
Death of Sargon II, Sennacherib ascends to the throne.
705 BCE
Sennacherib moves the capital to Nineveh, Dur-Sharrukin is abandoned.