In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh rules the city of Uruk.
Uruk was one of the most important cities of ancient Mesopotamia, located in southern Iraq near the Euphrates River. In the epic, Gilgamesh is portrayed as its powerful king, and the city’s citizens appeal to the gods because of his oppressive behavior.
The story repeatedly returns to Uruk as Gilgamesh’s home and as a symbol of civilization. After his adventures with Enkidu, Gilgamesh comes to value the city’s walls and achievements more deeply. The epic’s conclusion directs attention back to Uruk and its monumental construction.
Uruk should not be confused with Ur, another major Sumerian city associated with later traditions about Abraham. The epic presents Gilgamesh as a legendary king of Uruk, although a historical ruler named Gilgamesh may have existed.