The ancient city of Babylon - in modern-day Iraq - has engendered a rich legacy in art and thought, from great paintings to contemporary film and music.

Next month, the British Museum brings together such works of imagination with archaeological treasures - to try to reveal the reality behind the legends.

The exhibition will look at famous myths and stories - including the Tower of Babel, the Hanging Gardens, and King Nebuchadnezzar's madness.

Here - for Radio 4's The World At One - the museum's Assistant Keeper Dr Irving Finkel shows off some of the main exhibits.

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Radio 4's The World At One is broadcast each weekday at 1300.
'Babylon: Myth and Reality' will open from 13 November 2008 until 15 March 2009.

Music: 'Dead Calm' by Jeff Rona. Slideshow production by Paul Kerley.

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