2026 has been declared the 'Year of Urban Planning and Architecture' in Azerbaijan.
The editorial reports that President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree in this regard.
The decree states:
"Azerbaijan has a rich centuries-old past of urban planning and architectural traditions. Valuable architectural monuments have played an exceptional role in shaping the unique character of our large cities, which, located on the Silk Road, established close economic, political, and cultural ties with Eastern countries as important centers of trade, crafts, and culture.
Our historical cities, which have always been distinguished by their high level of development as clear examples of Azerbaijani urban planning and architectural art, have grown and expanded in line with the architectural trends of past eras, while preserving the essential features of local culture.
Today, defensive fortresses, caravanserais, mosques, temples, and mausoleums protected by the state across the country reflect the brilliant traditions of national architecture. Among the world-renowned historical and cultural monuments that evoke a sense of pride in their artistic and architectural perfection, the Mausoleum of Momine Khatun, Khudaferin Bridge, the 'Ateshgah' complex, and other similar unparalleled examples have become symbols of Azerbaijan's architecture.
Our rare treasures included in UNESCO's World Heritage List – the Inner City and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs complex, embodying the urban culture of ancient and medieval times, the Maiden Tower, which has preserved its majestic spirit to this day, the historical center of Sheki and the Khan's Palace are legacies that rightfully hold a place among the world's gems of Azerbaijani urban planning and architectural art.
The creative work of the great master Ajami Nakhchivani, whose anniversaries were celebrated within the framework of UNESCO and who is included in the list of great personalities whose 900th anniversary was celebrated, had a strong influence on the medieval architecture of Azerbaijan and the countries of the Middle East, representing the highest peak of the architectural school of the era.
By the mid-19th century, certain changes had already begun to be reflected in the planning structure and architectural style of Azerbaijani cities. The rapidly industrializing city of Baku began to acquire its unique appearance, a synthesis of Eastern and Western architecture, an amalgamation of antiquity and modernity, from that time onwards.
In the 20th century, special attention was paid to the creative use of national traditions in urban planning and architectural activities in the Republic of Azerbaijan. During this period, a number of cities were rebuilt, and their previous appearance changed, with urban planning in the regions taking precedence. This period, characterized by the prominent activities of two outstanding architects – Mikayil Huseynov and Sadig Dadashov, is distinguished by the creation of a new architectural style based on national traditions.
The years when national leader Heydar Aliyev led the republic constitute a special stage in the development of Azerbaijani urban planning and architecture. During these years, important decisions were made and measures were implemented on the initiative of the Great Leader regarding the preservation of historically established Azerbaijani cities and entire urban planning systems, planned work was carried out on the restoration of architectural monuments in cities, and institutional structures ensuring the sustainability of architectural and urban planning activities were established.
After Azerbaijan regained its state independence, new manifestations in the field of urban development were prominently reflected in the architectural solutions of monumental complexes built in the country. Through the realization of projects reflecting the advanced approaches and national experiences of the era over the past period, original examples of urban planning art with high moral and aesthetic impact have been created. The addition of unique modern architectural monuments such as the Heydar Aliyev Center, a symbol of constant renewal, and the Flame Towers, as well as the White City complex, to the existing magnificent buildings has further enriched the capital's panorama, and the architectural image of the regions has significantly changed, taking on a new form.
Today, the balanced development of the capital and regions and the promotion of sustainable settlement are defined as priority directions of architectural and urban planning activities in the social and economic development strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The extensive restoration and construction work, revitalizing life with innovative approaches following the victory in the 44-day Patriotic War in our territories occupied by Armenia and devastated for thirty years, clearly demonstrates the Azerbaijani state's comprehensive approach to architecture and urban planning. In accordance with the State Program on the Great Return, planning documents for more than 100 settlements, including 12 cities, have been prepared and construction has begun in these areas, declared a 'green energy' zone, in a short period from 2020 to 2025 – a rarity in global architectural and construction practice. The revival of the city of Shusha, the cultural capital of Azerbaijan and a source of pride for our people, by restoring its former architectural environment and authentic historical image, is a manifestation of national will.
Our country is recognized as a reliable partner in addressing global challenges related to climate change and urbanization, and in shaping innovative approaches. Joint initiatives with the UN-Habitat Program and national urban planning forums bringing together architects within this framework are successful examples of Azerbaijan's joint activities with international partners. The decision to hold the Thirteenth Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku in 2026 signifies Azerbaijan's growing role in sustainable urbanization processes."
The document aims to preserve the centuries-old traditions of urban planning and architectural culture of Azerbaijan, as well as to promote and expand the application of progressive approaches that respond to new challenges in this field in the country.
By decree, the Presidential Administration must prepare and submit its proposals regarding the action plan for declaring 2026 the 'Year of Urban Planning and Architecture' in Azerbaijan to the President within one month.