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Pre-Islamic | Christian

When Caucasian Albanians, the ancestors of modern-day Azerbaijanis, adopted Christianity, pagan and secular buildings that featured basilicas were repurposed for Christian worship. These long buildings were organized around a single nave and aisles. Over time, basilicas became more complex and featured multiple naves, domes, and ornately decorated interiors. Also, circular temples and mausoleums were introduced as alternatives to the basilica.

LLate Caucasian Albanian Christian architecture plays a large role in Azerbaijan’s architectural portfolio, especially in the Karabakh, Sheki, and Zaqatala regions.

Dadivang (Khudavang) is a Caucasian Albanian Monastery in Kalbajar region of Azerbaijan
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Dadivang (Khudavang) is a Caucasian Albanian Monastery in Kalbajar region of Azerbaijan, dating back to at least the 6th century.

Some of the world’s oldest churches were built in Caucasian Albania, as follows:

  • hall and single-nave basilica temples of Gyaurgala in the Aghdam district of the Karabakh region,
  • Mazymgaray in the Belokan district,
  • Khotavank cloister in the Kelbajar district of the Karabakh region and their derivatives


AZERBAIJANI Architecture

Old City BakuModern Azerbaijan is both a dynamic, progressive nation and an ancient civilization with vibrant traditions and culture. Nowhere is this combination of old and new more evident than in Azerbaijan’s built environment. For example, the architecture of Azerbaijan’s capital city, Baku, beautifully showcases this legacy. While Baku’s office buildings, apartment complexes, and glass skyscrapers mirror modern European design, ”Old City” Baku, known as  Icheri sheher,  features medieval Islamic domes, minarets, and ancient stone walls.

Azerbaijani Radio Hour


The Voice of the Karabakh Foundation, October 2, 2011. Access any of the shows of the Azerbaijani Radio Hour: The Voice of the Karabakh Foundation at www.KarabakhFoundation.org.