Abstract: The metaverse has emerged as a ubiquitous buzzword in the industry, with various sectors eagerly anticipating its potential to unlock forth new opportunities and foster exponential growth, and to serve as a driving force and powerful engine for the digital economy. However, there is a wide divergence of understanding regarding the metaverse across different domains and aspects. This paper aims to provide a framework for a systematic understanding and scientific research of the metaverse through a multidimensional approach. Firstly, we analyze several mainstream metaverse architectural frameworks and their pivotal components, revealing the intricate and multilayered structure of the metaverse. Secondly, we furnish a framework for a meticulous comprehension of metaverse, and propose the metaverse ecosystem architecture, elaborate on the requirements of various levels including the technology system, content system, economic system, collaboration system, and governance system, as well as highlight their interrelationships, and thereby construct the entire metaverse ecosystem. Furthermore, we place special emphasis on the analysis of the crucial role of blockchain technology within the metaverse, particularly underscoring its value in supporting data, digital assets, and collaboration. This study aims to provide a sturdy theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the future development of the metaverse field.