Curtius’ description of Babylon (2)

Text
Quintus Curtius, History of Alexander 5.1.28-30:
The Euphrates flows through and is held in check by embankments, massive works of great labour. Moreover, all these great works are surrounded by artificial hollows, sunk to a vast depth to meet the rush of the river; for when it has risen above the top of the embankment built against it, it would damage the buildings of the city, if there were no hollows and pools to receive it. These are built of baked brick and the entire work is cemented with bitumen. A bridge of stone built over the river connects the two parts of the city. This also is counted among the marvels of the Orient. For the Euphrates carries a depth of mud, and even when this was dug out far into the river for laying the foundations, they could with difficulty find firm ground for supporting the work; moreover, sand, which is piled up from time to time and adheres to the piers by which the bridge is supported, slows down the course of the river, which, being thus held back, is dashed against the bridge with greater violence than if it flowed in an unimpeded course.

Source (list of abbreviations) (source links will open in a new browser window)
Quintus Curtius, History of Alexander 5.1.28-30

Bibliography

Amar Annus

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