Seleucia was built on the western bank of the Tigris, by Seleucus, one of Alexander's generals. After the death of Alexander his vast empire was divided between four of his generals, and the grand division called Syria fell to the share of Seleucus. This included part of ancient Assyria, and therefore the venerable city of Babylon, which was at one time the greatest city in the world. As Seleucia rose into power it gradually took the place of Babylon, which fell into decay in its turn.
Ctesiphon was built opposite Seleucia on the other bank, and was the capital of the Parthian Empire, its royal palace being one of the wonders of the ancient world.
Kingdoms were bowled up and down in those days just as they are now, and in this way Ctesiphon was sacked by the Arabs, when, a few years after the death of Mohammed, they prostrated the Persian kingdom.
"CÆSAR'S ARCH" AT CTESIPHON.
The wonderful royal palace was destroyed and its glories scattered. One marvellous carpet in particular, which covered the Hall of Audience, was sent to the Caliph Omar as a trophy worthy of him alone. He had it cut up and divided among the captors, and it was of course ruined.
Tom and Mr. Jollytarre wandered through the ruins of Ctesiphon, talking of these things.
"At one time," said Mr. Jollytarre, "they were rebuilding, or rather refounding, Bagdad, in the time of a caliph called Almansur. He determined to use the devastated palace of Ctesiphon as a quarry for materials. He ordered the famous building to be entirely demolished for this purpose; but it was found to be impossible to carry out his orders, the pile was so stupendous. There is 'Cæsar's Arch,' for instance, which has escaped the destroyer's hand. The height and span of this arch are said to be unequalled in the world."
But Tom heaved a sigh. "I should have liked to see that carpet," he said.
"Yes, so should I. I hardly think carpet-makers of the East have improved since that day. They improve slowly out here. I don't believe things have altered much since Alexander's day."