Gunduz Ismayilov: Ancient churches, synagogues hold special place in Azerbaijan's heritage

Azerbaijan possesses many historical and religious monuments of global and regional significance, Report informs referring to Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations Gunduz Ismayilov.

According to Ismayilov, religious communities operate in these facilities, which are under special state protection.

"Hundreds of historical and religious monuments have survived to this day, many of which continue to function. Their repair and restoration, preservation for future generations, and the study of related historical facts are of great importance," he said.

Ismayilov noted that each such monument has its own history and connects the past with the present: "Discussing these histories, the role of religious communities and clergy in preserving monuments, as well as opportunities in this area, is one of the main goals of our work today. We believe that developing this activity will allow us to more broadly acquaint both the country's population and foreign visitors with historical and religious monuments."

The deputy chairman added that some of the monuments have already been restored. Among them, he mentioned the mosques of Baku, the Shamakhi Juma Mosque, and the Imamzadeh complex in Ganja. According to him, ancient Albanian and Orthodox churches, as well as active synagogues in Baku, Oghuz, and Guba, hold a special place among the historical and religious heritage.

"The preservation and restoration of historical and religious monuments, as well as the role of religious communities and clergy in this process, are the main topics of today's conference," he said.

Ismayilov also emphasized the special significance of mosques in the territories liberated from occupation: "Historical and religious monuments are not only places of worship and examples of historical and cultural heritage. They preserve the history of the Azerbaijani people, their national memory, and connection to the past. To preserve these monuments and pass them on to future generations means preserving the history and cultural heritage of our people."