As an expert in ancient civilizations and historical geography, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the question you've asked. The city of Babylon, renowned for its architectural and cultural significance, is indeed one of the most famous cities from ancient Mesopotamia. Its ruins are located in present-day Iraq, southwest of the capital city, Baghdad.
The etymology of the name "Babylon" is quite interesting. It is believed to have originated from the Akkadian phrase "bav-il" or "bav-ilim," which translates to "Gate of God" or "Gate of the Gods." This name reflects the city's religious importance, as it was a center for worship and housed the famous ziggurat, the Etemenanki, which was dedicated to the Babylonian god Marduk.
The Greek historians and scholars later adopted the name, and it was through their writings that the name "Babylon" became widely recognized in the Western world. The Greek version of the name has persisted through history and is still used today to refer to the ancient city.
Now, to address the question of whether there is a "new name" for Babylon, it's important to clarify that the city itself does not have a new name. The historical city of Babylon is still known as Babylon, and its ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their cultural and historical significance.
However, the modern location where the ancient city once stood is part of Iraq, a country with a rich and complex history that has seen many changes over the millennia. The region has been influenced by various cultures and empires, from the Assyrians to the Persians, the Seleucids, and the Islamic Caliphates, among others. Each of these civilizations has left its mark on the region, contributing to its modern cultural and geographical identity.
In contemporary terms, the area around the ancient ruins of Babylon is known as Al-Hillah, a city in the Babil Governorate of Iraq. Al-Hillah is the modern settlement nearest to the ancient site and serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Babylon.
It's also worth noting that the term "Babylon" has taken on symbolic meanings in various contexts. In the Bible, for example, it is often used as a symbol of奢淫逸 and decadence. In modern language, "Babylon" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe a place of confusion or a center of excessive luxury and indulgence.
In conclusion, while the ancient city of Babylon retains its original name and continues to be a significant historical and cultural symbol, the modern area surrounding its ruins is known as Al-Hillah in the Babil Governorate of Iraq. The name "Babylon" has a rich etymology and continues to resonate in both historical and contemporary contexts.
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