An ancient urban center refers to a significant settlement in history where people lived, worked, and traded. These centers often featured advanced infrastructure, including roads, public buildings, and marketplaces. They served as hubs for culture, politics, and economy, influencing surrounding regions. Examples include cities like Mesopotamia's Ur, Ancient Athens, and Mesoamerican Teotihuacan. These urban centers were characterized by their organized layout and social stratification. They typically had a central area for important activities, such as temples or government buildings, surrounded by residential and commercial zones. The development of these centers marked a crucial step in human civilization, facilitating the growth of societies and complex interactions.