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

2. 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

3. 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

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

5. Stairs to levels
Weep Holes
Mud Bricks

6. 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

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