The ancient civilization known for constructing ziggurats as part of their architecture is the Sumerians. Ziggurats served as monumental religious structures, functioning as temples dedicated to their gods. These stepped pyramids were built to elevate worshippers closer to the divine. Notable ziggurats, such as the Great Ziggurat of Ur, highlight the Sumerians' advanced engineering and spiritual practices. They represented not only religious significance but also served as symbols of political power and urban development in Mesopotamian society, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.