Chapter 1: Introduction to Ancient Ziggurats

Throughout history, ancient cultures have left behind enigmatic artifacts that continue to captivate researchers. Among these significant remnants are the grand religious edifices known as ziggurats. These impressive structures offer crucial insights into the lives and beliefs of early societies.

When discussing ancient monumental architecture, many envision the iconic pyramids of Egypt. However, it is important to recognize that substantial edifices were constructed in the Middle East prior to the Fourth Dynasty of the Nile. The ziggurats exemplify the remarkable skill of ancient builders, serving as a hallmark of Middle Eastern architectural legacy.

Who Were the Builders of Ziggurats?

Monumental religious structures emerged in the Middle East during its earliest epochs. As the Ubajd culture began to decline, segments of society focused on religious practices, leading to the establishment of temple complexes across Mesopotamia.

As city-states developed, each significant center constructed its own temple dedicated to a patron deity. These temples were typically designed with a rectangular layout on artificially elevated platforms, and featured multiple entrances. The interiors commonly consisted of three distinct chambers: an antechamber, a sanctum with an altar, and a sanctuary housing the deity's statue.

The Ziggurat of Babylon (Lighting the Lamp Video Podcast #118) explores the historical and architectural significance of these remarkable structures.

What Was the Purpose of Ziggurats?

Ziggurats were primarily built as temples to honor the guardian gods of their respective city-states. Ancient peoples believed that their deities resided atop mountains, hence the terraced design of the ziggurat symbolized these elevated peaks. The temple situated on the highest level was considered the dwelling place of the god.

Access to the pinnacle temple was restricted to the priest, who acted as an intermediary between the divine and the populace. Rituals were conducted in a secondary temple located at the base of the structure. Given the theocratic nature of ancient Middle Eastern societies, the ziggurats also represented a vital center of authority and governance.

The Architectural Features of Ziggurats

Ziggurats bore a resemblance to Egyptian pyramids, exhibiting four steeply inclined walls. However, unlike pyramids, they showcased a stepped design, akin to the pyramid of Djoser or Mesoamerican pyramids. The terraces of ziggurats were broader, constructed from kiln-dried bricks, with the outer walls made of fired bricks and reinforced with reed mats.

To manage moisture, these structures incorporated horizontal channels and ventilation shafts to alleviate steam buildup, showcasing their advanced engineering. Although typically solid and devoid of rooms, exceptions existed, such as the Elamite ziggurat at Dur-Untash-Napirish, where different levels connected via ramps or steps.

Chapter 2: Notable Ziggurats

Biblical Archaeology From the Ground Down: Ziggurats: Are They the Tower of Babel? delves into the archaeological significance and interpretations surrounding ziggurats.

Among the many ziggurats discovered, a few stand out due to their historical importance.

The Ziggurat of Ur

The well-known ziggurat in Ur, constructed around 2100 BC in honor of the moon god Nanna, was initiated under the reign of Ur-Nammu, the first leader of the Third Dynasty of Ur. This structure originally featured three terraces and reached a height of 21 meters (currently 13 meters), with a base measuring 65 x 43 meters.

The E-temenanki

Although the ziggurat in Ur remains relatively intact, little is known about the E-temenanki, dedicated to the god Marduk in Babylon. This structure fell into disrepair during Persian times, and remnants were repurposed for building materials. According to Herodotus, it may have been one of the largest temple structures in Babylon, constructed on a square base approximately 90 meters long.

The Ziggurat of Dur-Untash-Napirish

Lastly, the ziggurat in the Elamite capital of Dur-Untash-Napirish also deserves mention. Built on a square foundation of 105 meters per side, this structure underwent two construction phases, initially featuring a building with 28 rooms before being transformed into a three-tiered ziggurat.