Glossary

Ziggurat- A temple of Sumerian origin in the form of a pyramidal tower, consisting of a number of stories and having about the outside a broad ascent winding round the structure, presenting the appearance of a series of terraces.

Facings- a covering in front, for ornament, protection, etc., as an outer layer of stone on a brick wall.

Priest- A person whose office it is to perform religious rites, and esp. to make sacrificial offerings.

Tiers- One of a series of rows placed one above another.

Dwellings- A place to live in; an abode.

Receding- To go or move away; retreat; go to or toward a more distant point; withdraw.

Reign- To possess or exercise sovereign power or authority.

Ruins- the remains of a building, city, etc., that has been destroyed or that is in disrepair or a state of decay

Assyrians- Of or relating to Assyria or its people, language, or culture.

Babylonians- Of or relating to Babylonia or Babylon or their people, culture, or language.