Azerbaijan says illegal restoration carried out at Khudavang Monastery

Armenians carried out illegal restoration work at Khudavang Monastery during the final 10–20 years of the occupation with the aim of falsifying history, Sabina Hajiyeva, Head of the State Service for Protection, Development and Restoration of Cultural Heritage under Azerbaijan's Ministry of Culture, said.

According to Report, she made the remarks on the fourth day of Baku Climate Action Week 2026 (BCAW 2026).

Hajiyeva said Armenians even stole and removed two frescoes that they themselves had restored when leaving the area.

"We have also provided information about this to the international community. I hope the international community will help ensure the return of these examples of our cultural heritage," she said.

Hajiyeva also noted that the inventory of 130 monuments located in Karabakh and East Zangezur has yet to be completed because of the mine threat in the area.

"Alongside large-scale humanitarian demining, Azerbaijan is applying a people- and culture-centered approach to the reconstruction process. Historical monuments are being restored, cultural institutions are reopening, and smart villages and modern cities are being built," she said.