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How did the Processional Way connect Esagila with the Ishtar Gate?

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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.

The Processional Way was a major, stone- and brick-paved thoroughfare in the ancient city of Babylon that served as a vital ceremonial link within the city.123

Starting from Esagila—the great temple dedicated to the god Marduk—the road extended northward through the city. It passed directly through the Ishtar Gate, an enormous, decorated entryway that served as one of the city's primary fortified gates. Beyond the gate, the route continued toward the Akitu House, a sanctuary located outside the city walls that was visited by the statue of Marduk during the New Year festival.214

The thoroughfare was renowned for its elaborate decorations, featuring walls adorned with enameled reliefs of lions, while the section passing through the Ishtar Gate was embellished with tiers of dragons and young bulls.12