Urban planning and architectural traditions in Azerbaijan have a rich history spanning many centuries. Located on the Silk Road and maintaining close economic, political, and cultural ties with Eastern countries as major centers of trade, craftsmanship, and culture, our large cities developed their unique identities largely through outstanding architectural monuments.
Our historic cities, which are vivid examples of Azerbaijani urban planning and architectural art and have always stood out for their high level of development, expanded and evolved in accordance with the architectural trends of different eras while preserving the essential characteristics of local culture.
Today, fortresses, caravanserais, mosques, temples, and mausoleums protected by the state throughout the country reflect the brilliant traditions of national architecture. Among the world-renowned historical and cultural monuments that inspire pride through the perfection of their artistic and architectural solutions are the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, Khudafarin Bridge, the Atashgah Complex, and many other unparalleled examples that have become symbols of Azerbaijani architecture.
Our unique treasures included in the UNESCO World Heritage List — the Inner City (Icherisheher) and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace Complex, which embody the urban culture of ancient and medieval periods; the majestic Maiden Tower; and the historical center of Sheki and the Khan’s Palace — are invaluable masterpieces of Azerbaijani urban planning and architecture recognized worldwide.
The творчество of the great master Ajami Nakhchivani, included in UNESCO’s list of distinguished personalities whose anniversaries are celebrated within the framework of UNESCO, greatly influenced medieval architecture in Azerbaijan and the Near East and represents the highest peak of the architectural school of that era.
By the mid-19th century, certain changes had begun to appear in the planning structure and architectural style of Azerbaijani cities. Rapidly industrializing Baku started to acquire its unique appearance — a harmonious synthesis of Eastern and Western architecture, blending antiquity with modernity.
In the 20th century, special attention was paid in the Republic of Azerbaijan to the creative use of national traditions in urban planning and architectural activities. During this period, many cities were rebuilt and transformed, and urban planning in the regions was brought to the forefront. The activities of two prominent architects — Mikayil Huseynov and Sadiq Dadashov — played a leading role in creating a new architectural style based on national traditions.
The years when National Leader Heydar Aliyev led the republic marked a special stage in the development of Azerbaijani urban planning and architecture. During those years, important decisions and initiatives were undertaken at his direction to preserve historically formed Azerbaijani cities and entire urban systems. Planned restoration works on architectural monuments were carried out, and institutional frameworks ensuring the continuity of architectural and urban planning activities were established.
After Azerbaijan restored its state independence, new trends in urban development became clearly visible in the architectural solutions of monumental complexes constructed throughout the country. Over the years, projects reflecting advanced approaches and national experience have resulted in original examples of urban planning art with high spiritual and aesthetic value. The addition of modern architectural masterpieces such as the Heydar Aliyev Center, the Flame Towers, and the White City complex further enriched the capital’s landscape, while the architectural appearance of the regions underwent significant transformation.
Today, ensuring the balanced development of the capital and regions, promoting sustainable settlement, and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are defined as priority directions of architectural and urban planning activities within Azerbaijan’s socio-economic development strategy.
Following the victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, extensive reconstruction and restoration efforts using innovative approaches in the territories devastated during thirty years of Armenian occupation clearly demonstrate the Azerbaijani state’s comprehensive vision for architecture and urban planning. Under the First State Program on the Great Return, these territories were declared a “green energy” zone. Between 2020 and 2025 — in an exceptionally short period rarely seen in global construction practice — planning documents for more than 100 settlements, including 12 cities, were prepared and reconstruction work was launched. The restoration and revival of Shusha, the cultural capital and pride of our nation, with its authentic historical and architectural appearance, is a manifestation of national determination.
Our country is recognized as a reliable partner in addressing global challenges related to climate change and urban development and in shaping innovative approaches. Joint initiatives with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), as well as national urban planning forums bringing together architects within this framework, are successful examples of Azerbaijan’s cooperation with international partners. The decision to hold the Thirteenth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku in 2026 demonstrates Azerbaijan’s growing role in sustainable urban development processes.
Guided by Paragraph 32 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and with the aim of preserving Azerbaijan’s centuries-old traditions of urban planning and architectural culture, as well as promoting and expanding progressive approaches responding to new challenges in this field, I hereby decree:
- The year 2026 shall be declared the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
- The Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan shall, within one month, prepare and submit to the President proposals regarding an action plan related to declaring 2026 the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Baku, December 22, 2025