The Battle for Babylon

First broadcast May 2006

The city of Babylon, once the centre of ancient civilisation, has fallen victim to the ravages of modern warfare.

Occupied by US troops since 2003, what was once home to one of the seven wonders of the world has been severely damaged and neglected.

What is the scale of the destruction, and why is it so important that this site be protected?

Part Two: The Iraq Conflict

When US troops moved into Babylon three years ago, they turned the site into a military encampment.

Archaeologists discovered that the famous Processional Street had been turned into an army landing strip, sandbags had been filled with irreplaceable artefacts and a helicopter pad had been constructed perilously close to ancient temples.

Jonathan Charles examines the latest chapter of Babylon's history and discovers why the American occupation may leave lasting impact on the historical site.

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