Shusha: The next feature in AZERTAC's 'If I Were a Tourist' column turns the spotlight on Shusha's mosques. Shusha, known as the cultural capital of Azerbaijan and referred to as the pearl of the Caucasus, boasts a wealth of historical, cultural, and architectural monuments. Among these, mosques hold a significant place in the religious and architectural tapestry of the city. Historically, Shusha was divided into 17 quarters, each featuring a mosque, a bathhouse, and a spring.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Shusha's mosques, which are rare examples of religious and architectural heritage, have become popular tourist destinations. Like other monuments in Shusha, which was previously under occupation, these mosques faced acts of vandalism. However, following Shusha's liberation, extensive restoration and reconstruction efforts were undertaken for the Saatli, Mamayi, and Chol Gala mosques, among other important religious sites in the city.

The Mamayi Mosque, constructed in the late 19th century, is situated in the Mamayi neighborhood in central Shusha. Designed with a rectangular layout and a columned interior, the mosque features a wooden dome on its roof, traditionally used for the adhan, or call to prayer.

The Saatli Mosque, built in the Saatli neighbourhood in 1883, was designed by architect Karbalayi Safikhan Garabaghi. The mosque is notable for its minaret, setting it apart from other neighbourhood mosques in Shusha.

The Chol Gala Mosque, located in the Chol Gala neighbourhood, regarded as part of Shusha's upper quarters, is another historical gem constructed in the 19th century by Karbalayi Safikhan Garabaghi. Unlike most mosques in Shusha, it was built without a minaret and features a rectangular main fa§ade with an asymmetrically arranged common entrance. The interior showcases four octagonal stone columns that divide the common prayer hall into three sections.