The presentation of the photo journal “The Monuments of Qoçdaş and Atdaş”, prepared within the framework of the project “The Ancient Heritage of Western Azerbaijan – The Monuments of Qoçdaş and Atdaş”, has been held.
According to “Tehsil365”, the event was organized by the “Innovative Initiatives” Public Union for Assistance to Social and Economic Development, with financial support from the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations. The presentation was attended by prominent scholars, historians, cultural heritage experts, and public figures.
Chairman of the Public Union, Əşrəf Əhmədov, provided detailed information about the preparation of the photo journal, as well as its scientific, historical, and social significance:
“The monuments of Qoçdaş and Atdaş are not only tombstone sculptures but also carriers of the ancient Turkic worldview, the philosophy of heroism, and national-cultural identity. The main goal is to ensure the international recognition and legal protection of these monuments. In this regard, the photo journal serves as a presentation for UNESCO and other international organizations.”
It was also emphasized that Azerbaijan should take the initiative to include these monuments in UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List, and that the stone sculptures of Qoçdaş and Atdaş should be recognized not only as regional but also as part of the common Turkic culture and universal heritage. These monuments represent not just the memory of one nation, but the stone legacy of the entire Turkic civilization and part of humanity’s heritage.
At the same time, this photo journal is not only aimed at the restoration and promotion of historical heritage but also represents an important step towards strengthening Azerbaijan’s presence in the international cultural arena.