Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage was deliberately destroyed during the occupation period

Systematic destruction of historical and religious heritage in the Azerbaijani territories that remained under Armenian occupation for many years is confirmed by serious facts reflected in reports of international organizations. This indicates a deliberate policy aimed at erasing cultural heritage.

Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque, Shusha

During the occupation period, more than 700 historical and cultural monuments in Azerbaijan’s territories, including mosques, were destroyed or severely damaged. The vast majority of mosques were either completely demolished or used in a degrading manner for other purposes. There are recorded cases where these religious sites were turned into places for keeping pigs and cattle, which represents not only destruction but also a clear act of disrespect toward religious and moral values.

Aghdam Juma Mosque

At the same time, the systematic destruction of cemeteries during that period became widespread. Azerbaijani cemeteries were completely devastated, graves were dug up, tombstones were broken and stolen. These facts demonstrate that not only material heritage but also historical identity was targeted. Such acts of vandalism contradict the rules of war and international humanitarian law and are regarded as crimes against humanity.

Jabrayil cemetery

Even in the present-day territory of Armenia, traces of historical and religious heritage belonging to the Azerbaijani people have almost entirely been erased. In the city of Yerevan, mosques such as Shah Abbas, Sardar, Haji Novruzali and others were destroyed, and their origins were distorted and presented under different identities.

There is also photo and video evidence showing that alcohol was sold in the Tepebashi Mosque.

The facts show that this policy was not limited to territorial occupation but was also aimed at erasing the historical and cultural traces of the Azerbaijani people. It reflects a comprehensive approach involving the systematic destruction of cultural heritage, desecration of religious values, and alteration of historical memory.

The Daily Baku editorial office