Assyria was an ancient empire located in northern Mesopotamia. It was especially powerful between about 900 BCE and 600 BCE. Assyria controlled large areas of the Middle East.

Its capital cities included Nineveh and Ashur. The Assyrians were known for their strong army and large empire. They built roads, cities, and systems to manage their territory.

Assyria is studied in history through ruins, carvings, and written records. These sources show how the empire was organized and expanded.