Baku: APA presents the article ‘Binab: The City that preserves the spirit of Azerbaijan’ by Mahammad Rahmanifar as part of the ‘Explore South Azerbaijan’ project. You can read the previous article of the project here. Binab city is located 119 kilometers from Tabriz, the center of East Azerbaijan province. Binab city, with an area of approximately 25 square kilometers, is located in the southwest of East Azerbaijan province, on the main Tabriz-Maragha-Kurdistan and Tabriz-West Azerbaijan routes. This city is located on the slopes of Mount Sahand, next to the Sufichay, and on the shores of Lake Urmia. It should be noted that in Iran, according to the administrative territorial division of the country, the South Azerbaijan region is divided into West Azerbaijan, East Azerbaijan, Ardabil, Zanjan, Alborz, Gazvin, and Hamadan provinces (provinces). Binab city is actually considered the center of Binab district (county) and unites 29 villages of this district around it.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the 2017 census showed that the population of Binab city was over 87,000, and the population of Binab district was 129,795. The vast majority of the population of Binab, one of the ancient cities of Azerbaijan, is Shia Muslim and speaks Azerbaijani Turkish. Its fertile soil, proximity to abundant rivers such as the Sufi River, and the presence of hardworking people who take pride in earning their livelihood through honest labor have made this city one of the greenest and most productive areas in Southern Azerbaijan. Grapes, apples, almonds, walnuts, and more are among the main products of Binab’s orchards. Wheat, onions, and garlic are also widely cultivated in the region.
A brief look at the history of Binab reveals its ancient roots. Although comprehensive research is lacking, historical artifacts and evidence suggest that the city’s history and civilization date back six thousand years. Artifacts found in locations like Gara Tepe, Gara Goshun, and other historical sites indicate that these lands were inhabited in prehistoric times. The presence of ancient burial mounds and underground artifacts from the 1st-4th millennium BC, along with mosques and monuments from various periods, especially the Safavid period, highlight Binab’s rich historical tapestry. The remains of a cemetery from the Mongol Elkhanate period with inscriptions also signal the city’s ancient past.
Savr village, located 24 kilometers from Binab, exemplifies the region’s ancient architecture. Unlike many places worldwide, the rock-architecture villages of Southern Azerbaijan, such as Savr, remain inhabited today. The houses in Savr were carved into the mountain using primitive tools, showcasing a history that dates back about 3000-3500 years. This village, with its rock architecture, is a testament to the ingenuity of its inhabitants, who built homes in the mountains for protection against enemies or wild animals. The architectural design, featuring interconnected houses, allowed for communication and defense during times of attack.
The city of Binab has a history of resilience, notably demonstrated during the attacks of Sheikh Ubaydullah Shamzini in 1880. Sheikh Ubaydullah’s forces initially captured cities like Savujbulag and Goshachay, committing brutal massacres. However, they faced fierce resistance from the South Azerbaijani Turks in Urmia and Binab, ultimately leading to their defeat. This proud history of resistance is a significant part of Binab’s legacy, with its people having protected their city and Tabriz from occupation.
Today, the people of Binab continue to uphold their cultural heritage and identity. Despite attempts at assimilation by central governments, the history, language, and culture of Azerbaijan thrive in Binab. Customs, traditions, and cultural expressions such as Azerbaijani dance, music, and festivals remain vibrant in the city. The younger generation, in particular, is committed to preserving their Azerbaijani identity and cultural assets against external pressures. Binab stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and culture of Azerbaijan, reflecting a city that is not only historical but also vibrant and alive with Azerbaijani culture today.