Mesopotamian architecture spans from 10th millennium BC to 6th century BC. Scribes served as architects for government and royalty. Brick was the primary building material, with various brick styles developed
Ancient Near East covers modern Middle East, history began in 4th millennium BC. Largest cities housed tens of thousands of people. Memphis was largest Early Bronze Age city with 30,000 inhabitants. Ebla had 40,000 inhabitants in Intermediate Bronze Age. Ur had 65,000 inhabitants in Middle Bronze Age
Sumerian religion was practiced by first literate civilization in Mesopotamia. City-states were initially ruled by priests before kingship. Temples evolved from simple platforms to ziggurats by end of civilization
Inanna was the Sumerian goddess of love, war, fertility, and agriculture. She was known as the "Queen of Heaven" and protected kings in battle. She descended into the underworld, challenging Ereshkigal's rule. She received divine decrees (mes) from Enki
Enlil was the Sumerian god of air and supreme after his father Anu. He formed a triad with Anu and Enki governing heavens, earth, and underworld. He was the keeper of Tablets of Destiny containing gods' and humanity's fates. His decisions were final without regard to Anu's authority
Lamassu started as Sumerian goddess Lamma, evolving into hybrid creature. Initially depicted as winged animal with human head, later as hybrid creature. Symbolized protection, intelligence, and freedom in Mesopotamian culture