Final answer:
Extramural sanctuaries were constructed outside city walls after smaller villages were assimilated by proto-poleis. They served as religious and communal spaces, showcasing the cultural importance and architectural achievements of the city.
Step-by-step explanation:
Following the assimilation of smaller villages by proto-poleis, extramural sanctuaries were constructed. These sanctuaries were built outside the city walls and served as religious and communal spaces. They were often large and architecturally significant, showcasing the growing complexity and cultural importance of the city. These communal and religious structures predate the monumental scale seen in later periods, such as the Temple of Apollo at Didyma. These sanctuaries not only served as religious centers but also contributed to the wider cultural identity by creating stunning vistas and providing structures for community gatherings and spiritual practices. This architectural evolution underscores the intertwined developments of religion, socio-political organization, and settlement expansion in ancient societies.