Cyrus conquers the Neo-Babylonian Empire
539 BCE · Opis and the city of Babylon (modern Iraq) · World · Ancient
The Persian army first routed the Babylonian army at Opis and then entered the city of Babylon without bloodshed.
Belligerents
Persia
- Commanders
- Cyrus the Great
- Strength
- Persian main force
Neo-Babylonian Empire
- Commanders
- Nabonidus, Belshazzar
- Strength
- Babylonian garrison
Background
Nabonidus stayed for a long time at Tayma and neglected the government, alienating the priests and people at home, and Cyrus seized the opportunity to launch his campaign.
Course of the battle
- Field battle at OpisThe Persian army routed the Babylonian main force at Opis
- Babylon surrenders without a fightThe Persian army entered the city of Babylon without resistance
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 539 BCE |
|---|---|
| Place | Opis and the city of Babylon (present-day Iraq) |
| Result | The Persian army first routed the Babylonian army at Opis and then entered the city of Babylon without bloodshed. |
| Winner | Persia |
| Casualties | The Babylonian army suffered fairly heavy losses at Opis, and the city of Babylon surrendered without major fighting. |
| Territorial change | The Neo-Babylonian kingdom fell, and Cyrus proclaimed himself king of Babylon and of the four quarters of the world. |
Impact
The Persian Empire annexed all of Mesopotamia; the Cyrus Cylinder records his tolerant policies, and he allowed the captive Jews to return home.
See the world in 539 BCE on the map →