(Assyrian word “zigguratu”= height) Sumerian Ziggurats (Assyrian word “zigguratu”= height)

Polytheism Sumerians religion was based on Polytheism. That means they believed in many gods and goddess. Ki - God of good harvests. Enlil - God of rain. Enki - God of water Ishtar - Goddess of love & war. Temples employed many people, including priests, priestesses, musicians, craftworkers, bakers, barbers, & Scribes

Ziggurats Tall, flattened pyramids made of mud-brick. Located in the center of town. Had a temple on the top. Important to the practice of their religion. This was the largest and most important building located in the center of each Sumerian city. Sumerians believed it was the home of the city’s patron god. It was built on a platform and provided protection from floods

Building Materials In early Sumer it was made of rectangular mud bricks because they didn’t have stone or timber.

Stairs to levels Weep Holes Mud Bricks

The temple supplied employment. The Use of the Temple In the highest story, visited only by the most important priests The main purpose of the ziggurat was to have a place of respect and worship for the gods. Sumerians believed giving gifts and sacrifices in hopes that it would give them protection and success on earth. The temple supplied employment. administration (priests) maintenance (musicians, singers

It served as a center for activity Food storage and distribution Marketplace, trading of goods Celebrations