Ceremonial mounds

Ceremonial mounds are large earthworks constructed by ancient cultures for religious, ceremonial, or political purposes. Usually built from soil or other materials, these mounds served as platforms for rituals, temples, or leaders' tombs. They often held cultural significance, symbolizing spiritual beliefs or community identity. Found in various regions worldwide, such as North America’s Adena and Mississippian cultures, these mounds reflect complex social and religious practices of their builders. While their exact functions varied, they consistently played central roles in the ceremonial and social life of ancient societies.