What was the first and largest city of ancient Mesopotamia?

Uruk is recognized as the first and largest city of ancient Mesopotamia, marking a significant development in urbanization and civilization. Situated in what is now modern-day Iraq, Uruk emerged during the late 4th millennium BCE and is often associated with monumental architecture, including temples and defensive walls, which reflected its importance as a cultural and economic hub.

The significance of Uruk stems from its role in the formation of writing, particularly cuneiform, and the establishment of governance, trade, and complex social structures that characterized early human civilization. As one of the earliest cities, Uruk served as a model for subsequent urban development in Mesopotamia and beyond.

While Babylon, Nippur, and Lagash were also important cities in Mesopotamian history, they came later in the development of the region and did not hold the same prominence as Uruk during its peak as the first major urban center. Each of these cities contributed to the rich tapestry of Mesopotamian culture, but none match Uruk's status as the pioneer of urban life in ancient Mesopotamia.