Final answer:
Ziggurats were places of public worship in ancient Mesopotamia, not dwelling places of the gods. These massive structures served as temples where people gathered to honor and worship their gods and seek divine support for their cities and communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to archaeological evidence and historical records, ziggurats were indeed places of public worship in ancient Mesopotamia. Contrary to the belief mentioned in the question, ziggurats were not considered dwelling places of the gods. Instead, they served as temples where people gathered to honor and worship their gods, offer sacrifices, and seek divine support for their cities and communities.
The ziggurats were built as large stepped towers with flat tops using mud-brick construction. These massive structures were dedicated to specific patron gods or goddesses of the cities, and were believed to attract the gods to take up residence in their respective cities, bringing prosperity and protection to the people.
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