A ziggurat is a massive, stepped pyramid-like structure built in ancient Mesopotamian cities.

They were not tombs but temples, believed to be the earthly dwelling places of the city's patron god.

Ziggurats were constructed of mud-brick, with the exterior often faced with baked brick for durability.

The design featured receding tiers with a shrine or temple at the summit.

Access to the shrine at the top was provided by a series of ramps or staircases.

The famous Ziggurat of Ur is one of the best-preserved examples.

Only priests were permitted to enter the ziggurat, where they performed rituals and made offerings on behalf of the community.

The biblical story of the Tower of Babel is believed by many scholars to be inspired by Mesopotamian ziggurats.

Their height was intended to connect the earth with the heavens, acting as a bridge between humans and the gods.

Ziggurats were the religious, economic, and administrative centers of their respective city-states.