🜂 North Palace at Nineveh, Assyrian Empire, 645–635 BCE

Ugallu, meaning “Great Lion”, was a protective spirit in Assyrian mythology, often depicted with the body of a man and the head of a lion. Figures of Ugallu adorned palace walls and gateways to ward off evil and protect inhabitants from harm.

Often depicted with the body of a man and the head of a lion, Ugallu symbolized strength and divine protection. He was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring safety to households, temples, and palaces.

Figures or reliefs of Ugallu were commonly placed at doorways and gateways as guardians against misfortune. In art, he is usually shown holding a weapon or a staff, emphasizing his role as a fierce defender. Ugallu represents the Mesopotamian belief in the balance between divine power and protection against chaos.