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AzerNEWS Staff

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On August 11, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva inspected the restoration and conservation efforts at the Momine Khatun Mausoleum in Nakhchivan city.

Erich Pummer, Director of Atelier Erich Pummer GmbH, briefed the head of state and the First Lady on the progress of the restoration works at the mausoleum.

The “State Program for the Socio-Economic Development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic for 2023–2027,” approved by an Order signed by President Ilham Aliyev in 2023, envisages assessing the current condition of historical and architectural monuments in the autonomous republic and carrying out restoration and conservation works. The works at the Momine Khatun Mausoleum are being implemented in accordance with this program.

As a result of inspections and studies conducted by local and foreign experts between 2023 and 2025, restoration and conservation works on the mausoleum were deemed necessary.

In 2025, the head of state signed an Order on measures related to the restoration and conservation of the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, a historical and architectural monument of world importance.

One of the prominent monuments of Azerbaijani architecture, the mausoleum was built in 1186 by architect Ajami Nakhchivani. According to historical sources, it was part of the Atabeg Architectural Complex. The mausoleum is the only surviving monument from the complex. The original height of the mausoleum was 34 meters. However, an eight-meter section of its outer roof subsequently collapsed, bringing its current height to approximately 26 meters. The mausoleum consists of underground and above-ground sections.

Taking into account the monument’s architectural characteristics and significance, a contract was signed with an Austrian company with extensive experience in this field. The current condition of the monument was assessed, and comprehensive research and measurement works were conducted. Restoration works are currently underway, including the reconstruction of the roof, measuring and monitoring the existing tilt of the mausoleum, and the installation of a drainage system.

The Momine Khatun Mausoleum was placed under state protection as an architectural monument of world importance in 2001. In 1998, it was included in UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.

The implementation of this project is of paramount importance for the preservation and promotion of Azerbaijan’s historical heritage. A magnificent monument of Azerbaijani national architecture and one of the pearls of Eastern architecture, the Momine Khatun Mausoleum represents an important legacy of Azerbaijan’s history and culture. Created by prominent Azerbaijani architect Ajami Nakhchivani, this rare and monumental work of art is distinguished by its unique compositional design. The mausoleum also serves as a vivid testament to the highly developed culture and traditions of statehood in Azerbaijan during that period.