Archaeologists Decode Oldest Map of World, Revealing World's Early Creation and Mythical Creatures

Researchers decoded a Babylonian tablet believed to be the oldest map of the world. The Imago Mundi, created between 2,600 and 2,900 years ago, offers a glimpse into ancient beliefs and practices.
The tablet features a circular map with cuneiform text about the world's early creation. It shows Mesopotamia, or the 'land between the rivers,' once considered the entire 'known world.' The map also reflects the Babylonians' belief in the God of Creation, Marduk, and mythical creatures like the scorpion-man and Anzu, the lion-headed bird.
The map's key features are two rings labeled 'bitter river,' showing the edge of the known world, and a depiction of the Euphrates River. It also identifies cities and tribes like Assyria, Der, and Urartu. The triangles, thought to be mountains, represent distant lands beyond Mesopotamia.
The cuneiform text names regions and cities, showing a world with divine, human, and monstrous beings. While the tablet is fragmented and not fully deciphered, the British Museum reports it mentions 'ruined cities ... whom Marduk watches.'
The map was first discovered in 1882 by archaeologist Hormuzd Rassam in Sippar, now part of modern-day Iraq. It was rediscovered 29 years ago and is currently held at the British Museum.