To please King Nebuchadnezzar II's wife, Queen Amytis.
* Homesickness: Amytis, a princess from the Median capital of Ecbatana, was said to be homesick for the lush, green landscapes of her homeland.
* A symbol of power and love: Nebuchadnezzar II, known for his ambitious building projects, wanted to create a breathtaking wonder to appease his wife and demonstrate his love and power.
Other possible reasons:
* Propaganda: The gardens could have been used as a form of propaganda to showcase the power and wealth of the Babylonian empire.
* Strategic location: Some scholars speculate that the gardens were built in a strategic location to provide a visual landmark and serve as a symbol of Babylonian dominance.
However, it's important to note that the existence of the Hanging Gardens is still debated by historians and archaeologists. While there is strong evidence of Nebuchadnezzar II's construction projects in Babylon, no definitive archaeological evidence of the gardens themselves has been found.
This lack of evidence has led to various theories about their location, construction, and even whether they actually existed. Some believe they might have been a more modest structure that was embellished over time through legend and storytelling.
Ultimately, the true purpose and design of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon remain shrouded in mystery, adding to their allure as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.