Room 9
Assyria: Nineveh
Visiting the gallery
Opening times
Daily: 11.00–15.00
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Gallery audio guides
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Nineveh was the capital of the powerful ancient Assyrian empire, located in modern-day northern Iraq.
Sennacherib was the king of Assyria from 704–681 BC and was famous for his building projects. The rooms and courtyards of his Neo-Assyrian Southwest Palace at Nineveh were decorated with a series of detailed carved stone panels. Many of these stone panels are on display in Room 9. The panels depict a variety of scenes, including the transport of huge sculptures of human-headed winged bulls (lamassu) that weigh up to 30 tons and were intended for the main entrances to the palace.
These illustrations provide an insight into ancient quarrying and transport techniques, as well as Sennacherib's keen interest in his building projects. Other panels on display depict the king's military campaigns.
Take a virtual tour
Take a closer look at the ornate carved stone panels from the Neo-Assyrian Southwest Palace at Nineveh in Room 9.
Highlights
Accessibility
- Large guides
- Braille guides
- Audio guides
- Seating benches
- Lift access to level two
- View sensory map.
Visit Accessibility at the Museum for more information.
