1. Language and Writing: The Babylonians adopted the Sumerian cuneiform script and used it for their own language, Akkadian. They adopted and adapted Sumerian literature, religious texts, and legal codes, translating and incorporating them into their own cultural framework.
2. Religion: The Babylonian pantheon included many Sumerian gods, and some of their religious beliefs and practices were influenced by Sumerian religion. Deities such as Anu, Enki, and Inanna were worshipped by both cultures, although they might have had different names or attributes in Babylonian mythology.
3. Art and Architecture: The Babylonian art and architecture showed influences from Sumerian styles, particularly in the early stages of Babylonian civilization. The famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, were attributed to King Nebuchadnezzar II and were influenced by Sumerian terraced gardens.
4. Social Structure: The Babylonians had a hierarchical social structure similar to the Sumerians. The society was divided into different classes, with the elites at the top and the slaves at the bottom. There was a priestly class that played an important role in society, and the king held a divine status as the representative of the gods on earth.
5. Legal and Administrative Systems: The Code of Hammurabi, one of the earliest known written legal codes, was influenced by Sumerian legal traditions. The code established laws and regulations to govern various aspects of Babylonian society and had a significant impact on later legal systems.
6. Mathematics and Astronomy: The Babylonians continued and expanded upon the mathematical and astronomical knowledge of the Sumerians. They made significant contributions to mathematics, developing a sexagesimal system for measuring time and angles. They also advanced in astronomy, creating detailed star charts and studying celestial phenomena.
While the Babylonians adopted and built upon many Sumerian cultural elements, they also developed their own unique contributions to civilization, such as their magnificent cities like Babylon and their extensive trading networks throughout the region.