Why were there houses built around the ziggurat in mesopotamia?

Houses were built around the ziggurat in Mesopotamia primarily because the ziggurat served as a central religious and administrative hub for the community. Its elevated structure symbolized a connection between the heavens and the earth, making it a focal point for worship and rituals. By constructing homes nearby, residents could easily access the ziggurat for religious activities and community gatherings, reinforcing social cohesion and cultural identity. Additionally, the proximity to the ziggurat indicated status and the importance of the religious institutions within the society.