zigurates
Ziggurats were massive structures built in ancient Mesopotamia, primarily by the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. These stepped pyramids served as temples and were often dedicated to specific gods. They typically featured a flat top where priests would perform rituals, and their construction involved mud bricks and a tiered design.
The ziggurat's design symbolized a connection between the earth and the heavens, reflecting the religious beliefs of the time. Each ziggurat was part of a larger temple complex, which included altars and other buildings. Notable examples include the Great Ziggurat of Ur and the Ziggurat of Babylon.