A scientific seminar titled “Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Urban Tourism” was held at Mingachevir State University (MSU) with the organization of the Departments of Humanities and Economics. The purpose of the seminar was to discuss issues related to the preservation of cultural heritage in a scientific context, to explore the tourism potential of historical and cultural monuments, and to present modern approaches in this field.

The seminar was opened with an introductory speech by Associate Professor Esmira Jafarova, Head of the Department of Humanities at Mingachevir State University. She emphasized that the preservation of cultural heritage plays a significant role in safeguarding the historical memory and national identity of every nation. She noted that alongside the study, protection, and transmission of historical and cultural heritage to future generations, the effective use of these heritage sites in the development of urban tourism has become an important issue in the modern era.

During the seminar, several interesting presentations were delivered according to the program. Associate Professor Taleh Aliyev, PhD in History and a member of the Department of Humanities at MSU, delivered a presentation titled “Archaeological Heritage and the Potential of Archaeotourism.” He emphasized that, in addition to scientific research on archaeological monuments, their inclusion in tourism routes could make a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of regions.

Ali Nadirov, lecturer at the Department of Economics at MSU and a doctoral student at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University (Türkiye), delivered a presentation titled “Cultural Heritage and Urban Tourism.” In his speech, he analyzed the role of historical and cultural heritage sites in increasing the tourism attractiveness of cities. He noted that there is a strong interconnection between the preservation of cultural heritage and the development of the tourism sector, and that the application of strategic approaches in this direction is essential.

MSU master’s student Ravan Mammadshanli delivered a presentation titled “The Christian Heritage of Caucasian Albania: Preservation of Albanian Temples.” He provided information about the historical and cultural significance of ancient Albanian temples as well as the efforts undertaken for their preservation and study.

Within the framework of the seminar, MSU master’s student Arzuman Hasanov presented a report titled “Mausoleums of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur: Research and Preservation.” The presentation highlighted the architectural features of historical mausoleums located in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, as well as issues related to their scientific research and protection.

At the end of the seminar, extensive discussions were held around the topic. Participants shared their views and proposals on the preservation of cultural heritage, the study of historical monuments, and the development of urban tourism. It was noted that such scientific seminars play an important educational role in raising awareness about cultural heritage and promoting its preservation.