Final answer:
Archaeological sites with standing structures, such as Knossos, Great Zimbabwe, and Göbekli Tepe, provide insights into ancient civilizations and their architectural practices, highlighting methods like drystone technology and the craftsmanship evident in sacred buildings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Archaeological sites with standing structures are those locations where historical buildings, monuments, and other physical constructions have been preserved over time and remain visible in the current day. These sites often offer valuable insights into past civilizations and their architectural practices. A prominent example is the archaeological site at Knossos on Crete, featuring walls of large stone and restored rooms that date back to ancient times. Other significant sites include the stone buildings at Great Zimbabwe, constructed between the eleventh and fourteenth centuries, which showcase the impressive drystone technology. The twelfth- and thirteenth-century buildings made with stone, mortar, and plaster provide tangible connections to the people who built them, often leaving behind fingerprints or handprints within the construction materials. Conversely, Göbekli Tepe in southeast Turkey features T-shaped stone pillars and stone art, highlighting the sophisticated craftsmanship of ancient builders. Collectively, these archaeological sites help us understand various facets of human history, from religious practices to urban design, such as in the architecture and design of sacred buildings like the Umayyad Mosque, Borgund Stave Church, and the Lalibela Church Complex.