Ur of the Chaldees is mentioned in the Bible as the birthplace of Abraham and it was the capital of the ancient civilisation of Sumeria. This archaeological site was first excavated in 1922-34 by Sir Leonard Woolley.

The excavations are located near the town of Nasiriya, which is the best place from where to arrange a visit.

In former days the city stood on the banks of the Euphrates, but the river has changed its course. The earliest buildings date from 4000 BC, and there is an impressive ziqqurat (pyramid-shaped tower), as well as some royal tombs in a good state of preservation. These tombs are thought to date from about 2600-2000 BC. It is one of the most impressive archaeological remains in Iraq.