Western Azerbaijan: Historical Memory and Cultural Heritage

Virtual Exhibition

Western Azerbaijan: Historical Memory and Cultural Heritage

The virtual exhibition “Western Azerbaijan: Historical Memory and Cultural Heritage” brings together valuable sources reflecting the rich history, tangible cultural heritage, ethnography, literary and spiritual values of Western Azerbaijan—one of the ancient historical homelands of the Azerbaijani people—as well as the centuries-old way of life of Azerbaijanis who lived in these territories. The exhibition presents materials on cultural traditions and heritage preserved in various regions of Western Azerbaijan, including Iravan, Goycha, Zangezur, Daralayaz, Vedibasar, Aghbaba, Shorayel, and other historical Azerbaijani lands. These materials highlight architectural monuments, ancient settlements, mosques, bridges, cemeteries, as well as examples of folk art and folklore heritage. The exhibition also features scholarly works documenting the historical and geographical landscape of the region, the ethnic composition of its population, and the centuries-old ties of the Azerbaijani people to these lands. The virtual exhibition pays particular attention to the fate of Azerbaijanis deported from Western Azerbaijan at different periods in history, the preservation of their national and cultural identity, and the enduring attachment to their ancestral homeland. It also presents publications and studies of particular significance for conveying historical realities to the international community and for exposing attempts to falsify and appropriate cultural heritage. The purpose of the exhibition is to promote the rich historical and cultural heritage of Western Azerbaijan, highlight its place in the collective memory of the Azerbaijani people, contribute to the study and dissemination of historical realities, and foster respect for national and moral values as well as a sense of patriotism among future generations. The books presented in the exhibition once again demonstrate that Western Azerbaijan constitutes an important part of the inseparable historical and cultural space of the Azerbaijani people.