2050-2030 BC: Great Ziggurat of Ur

2050-2030 BC

Great Ziggurat of Ur in Tell el-Muqayyar, Dhi Qar Province, Iraq

The Great Ziggurat of Ur has the Ancient Near East architectural style; therefore, it has four sides and slopes up to the sky/god. It is ordered to be constructed by King Ur-Nammu of the Third Dynasty of Ur to honor the divine patron, Nanna the moon god. It used to be the highest point of the city where people can spot the structure from afar. It is also a spiritual place and a location where people can receive food allotments for physical nourishment. The exterior of the Ziggurat is tiered for vantage points and religious rituals. It is orientated to the true North, 210 by 150 feet, with three levels. There are three monumental staircases that lead to the main gate at the first terrace and one single staircase to a second terrace. The second level has a platform where a temple and the top terrace are.

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