Death of Darius

Alexander rebuilt the Temple of Bel in Babylon, excusing Jews from working on what they considered the Tower of Babel. At Susa he returned Athena's statue to Athens. The Persian queen died; Alexander gave her a royal burial and comforted Sisygambis. Darius offered to share the throne; Alexander refused, saying the world cannot have two suns. He assumed Eastern pomp and spent time feasting. Drunk, he burned the palace of Persepolis. Continuing north, he nearly caught Darius—but the traitor Bessus mortally wounded him. Alexander punished Bessus barbarously. He found Darius dying, promised to protect his family, and sent the body to Sisygambis for royal burial. She loved him forever after.