What is a ziggurat?

A ziggurat is defined as a pyramid-shaped temple tower, primarily associated with ancient Mesopotamian cultures such as the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. These structures were built as tiered, step-like forms that rose to a peak, often serving as a place of worship and as a way to connect the earth with the heavens. The design typically features a series of stacked platforms or terraces, leading to a shrine at the top. The construction of ziggurats was closely tied to the religious beliefs and practices of these civilizations, emphasizing their significance as central hubs for both spirituality and community.

The other options present different concepts that are not related to ziggurats. For instance, a type of ancient market would not encapsulate the religious and architectural functions of a ziggurat. Similarly, a traditional dwelling of Mesoamerican people and a kind of agricultural system pertain to different historical and cultural contexts, further clarifying that the characteristics attributed to ziggurats are unique to the ancient Near East.