What was Babylon often referred to as?

Babylon is often referred to as the "Gateway to the East" due to its strategic geographical position that facilitated trade and cultural exchanges between various civilizations. This nickname reflects the city's historical significance as a major center of commerce and culture in the ancient world, particularly as it connected different regions and empires through its complex network of trade routes. The city played a crucial role in the interactions among various civilizations, making it a focal point for economic and cultural transmission.

In contrast, the other options, while thematic and evocative of different aspects of ancient societies or cities, do not accurately encapsulate the central role Babylon played in historical geography and commerce. For example, the term "City of Knowledge" suggests a different focus on intellectual and scholarly pursuits, which aligns more closely with other historical centers like Athens or Alexandria. "Oasis of Sin" would imply a moral or ethical judgment rather than a description of Babylon's geographical importance, and "Land of the Giants" could reference mythological stories or different cultures rather than Babylon's well-documented historical context.