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How did Nebuchadnezzar II make Babylon one of the largest and richest cities of the ancient world?

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Reconstructed Ishtar Gate at Babylon near Al-Hillah, Iraq, featuring blue walls decorated with rows of yellow and white animal reliefs and a central arched entrance. — Babylon A reconstruction of the Ishtar Gate at the ruins of Babylon, near modern Al-Ḥillah, Iraq.

Nebuchadnezzar II transformed Babylon into one of the largest and wealthiest cities of the ancient world through extensive infrastructure projects, strategic economic management, and massive architectural expansion.12

To support the city's growth and prosperity, he maintained and expanded the regional canal systems, which significantly increased agricultural fertility. This agricultural success, combined with flourishing trade and commerce, established Babylonia as one of the richest lands in western Asia. He also utilized the wealth generated by high taxes and tributes from his empire to fund his ambitious building programs.1

His architectural legacy included:
* Fortifications: He fortified the city with a massive double wall and added an outer triple wall, along with the Median Wall, to protect the capital.312
* Urban Development: He enlarged the royal palace, which featured hundreds of rooms and colorful glazed-tile bas-reliefs. He also completed the Etemenanki, a massive ziggurat associated with the Tower of Babel.312
* Public Works: He constructed the famous Ishtar Gate and a grand Processional Way decorated with enameled figures, creating a city of unprecedented splendor.312