Baku: Azerbaijan has taken significant steps in preserving its cultural heritage by registering 25 more historical monuments in the liberated territories. In line with Decree No. 1170 from the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated October 29, 2020, the State Service for Protection, Development and Restoration of Cultural Heritage under the Ministry of Culture has been conducting inventory work in these areas.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the recent efforts have led to the identification and registration of 16 archaeological and 9 architectural monuments in the districts of Aghdam, Fuzuli, Aghdara, and Khojaly. This initiative involved comprehensive field research, preparation of electronic maps, photo documentation, drone footage, and the review of archival documents and other sources.

To date, the inventory of 575 historical and cultural monuments in the liberated territories has been completed. Among these, 402 objects of historical, architectural, and archaeological importance have been newly discovered and registered. Decision No. 193 by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated July 3, 2025, included 44 of these newly discovered monuments in the list of immovable historical and cultural monuments. As a result, the total number of registered historical monuments in Karabakh and East Zangezur has now reached 749.

However, inventory work remains incomplete for 130 of the 749 monuments under state protection. Many of these are situated in areas that are dangerous, mine-contaminated, or in high mountainous and forested regions, making access difficult.

The nearly three-decade occupation had severe impacts on these historical sites, with 68 monuments completely destroyed and 114 suffering extensive damage. Other monuments experienced varying levels of destruction. The State Service has assessed the material damage to 434 monuments, estimating the total damage at 700 million 154 thousand manats.