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Laman Ismayilova

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The Land of Fire boasts a remarkable array of historical and cultural landmarks. The country's cultural heritage covers a wide range of areas including architecture, art, crafts, music, and much more.

Thanks to its rich cultural heritage, Azerbaijan has received recognition from international organizations such as the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (IСESCO), which calls for the preservation of cultural heritage and the development of dialogue between the member states.

Through its membership in ICESCO since 1991, Azerbaijan actively advocates for the preservation and appreciation of cultural heritage, fostering intercultural dialogue among nations.

The country is closely cooperating with various organisations, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Islamic Development Bank, the Islamic Conference of Parliamentary Union, and the Islamic Conference of Youth Forum.

Moreover, Shusha City was declared the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for the upcoming 2024.

Azerbaijan's cultural heritage was in the spotlight at the 11th meeting of the Islamic World Heritage Committee (IWHC), operating under ICECO, Azernews reports.

Ten examples of Azerbaijan's intangible cultural heritage were inscripted in the Islamic World Heritage List. Among them are Yalli, known as the traditional group dances of Nakhchivan; tradition of making and sharing stuffing, an indicator of cultural identity; wrestling culture, traditional zorkhana games, sports and wrestling; Azerbaijani mugham; Lahij copper art, Chovqan - traditional Garabagh horse game; Azerbaijani ashiq art; traditional art of making and wearing Kalagayi and its symbolism; the art of tar performance and the mastery of its preparation; traditional art of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan.

With this, the number of examples of cultural heritage in the Islamic World Heritage List of Azerbaijan has reached 13.

In 2019, the Old City (together with the Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshahs Palace Complex), the historical center of Shaki (including the Khan's Palace) and Gobustan rock art were included in the Islamic World Heritage List.

ICESCO Director-General Salim M. AlMalik presented a certificate confirming the inclusion of the mentioned elements into the Islamic World Heritage List based on the nomination files prepared by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, to Azerbaijan's permanent representative in this institution Nazim Samadov.

The decision of Islamic World Heritage Committee demonstrates the significant value of the intangible cultural heritage elements belonging to the Azerbaijani people.

The verdict underscores the importance of safeguarding, conserving, and ensuring the sustained existence of this cultural heritage.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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