How did the kings of Babylon use the city’s location?

Babylon is one of the most famous and legendary cities of antiquity. It was twice the capital of the Babylonian kingdom. Alexander the Great also declared it his capital, after he first saw this majestic city. It can be understood that the very advantageous location of the city contributed to its expansion and prosperity. But, even in spite of this, the city often succumbed to destruction and plunder. In fact, throughout the entire period of Babylon’s existence 2.5 thousand – 5th century BC, it was one of the main centers of cultural and commercial life of the ancient East.