Akkad was an ancient city located in Mesopotamia, near the modern city of Baghdad in Iraq. It was the capital of the Akkadian Empire, which emerged around 2334 BCE under the rule of Sargon of Akkad. The city was known for its advanced culture, including developments in writing, art, and architecture. The Akkadian Empire was the first to unite various city-states in the region, spreading the Akkadian language and culture. The empire reached its peak around 2250 BCE, influencing surrounding areas and laying the groundwork for future civilizations in Mesopotamia.