The open history lessons organized for students by the staff of the Genocide Memorial Complex are ongoing. The latest lesson was held for the 5th-grade students of the Piral village full secondary school in the Qusar district.
As part of the "Let's Protect Our Historical Monuments" project, the organization of open lessons aimed at conveying our historical truths to the younger generation continues. At the latest event, nearly 30 teachers and students from Secondary School No. 2 of the First Nugadi village in the Guba district participated.
On April 18, an event dedicated to the International Day for Monuments and Sites was held on the topic "Continuing the Tradition of Preserving and Restoring Historical Monuments," organized jointly by the Heydar Aliyev Center in Yasamal District and the "Genocide Memorial Complex" in Guba city.
The event was attended by Zohrab Jafarov, Head of the Department of Yasamal District Executive Authority; Dr. Subhan Talibli, specialist at the “Genocide Memorial Complex” in Guba and associate professor with a PhD in history; Dr. Rizvan Garabaghi, leading researcher at the Institute of Architecture and Art of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, associate professor with a PhD in architecture; Saadat Mirzayeva, Director of the House Museum of Tahir Salahov; Zakir Guliyev, an employee of the Ministry of Culture; as well as teachers and students from the Azerbaijan University of Culture and Arts.
At the event, participants visited a photo exhibition titled “Our Cultural Heritage: Yesterday and Today – Karabakh Monuments,” organized by the Genocide Memorial Complex, in the center’s foyer.
The event began with the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan, followed by a one-minute silence in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs.
Nigar Huseynova, the head curator of the Center, opened the event with a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting Azerbaijan’s rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as the exceptional services of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in this field.
The speakers, Zohrab Jafarov, Subhan Talibli, Rizvan Garabaghi, and Saadat Mirzayeva, talked about the restoration, protection, and preservation of historical monuments in the country, as well as the promotion of cultural artifacts on the international stage. They highlighted the work done in the capital Baku and other regions of Azerbaijan, with the support and care of President Ilham Aliyev, in the fields of conservation, restoration, and reconstruction of cultural and historical monuments.
A video clip titled “Ancient Azerbaijani Monuments” was then shown.
"47 Ronin Monument"
The monument built to commemorate the heroism of Lord Asano and the 47 samurais (later known as ronin after losing their master) is located inside the Sengakuji Temple in Tokyo, Japan. The story of the 47 Ronin is one of the most famous samurai legends in Japanese history. This event took place in the early 19th century and embodies the highest values of the samurai code, “Bushido.”
The story of the monument begins with the insult of a feudal lord named Asano Naganori by a court official, Kira Yoshinaka, who schemed to seize Asano’s position. Unable to tolerate the insult, Asano slashed Kira with his sword. However, since he violated the laws of the court, Asano was sentenced to death, and Kira achieved his goal by taking Asano’s position as the feudal lord.
Asano’s loyal samurai (ronin) decide to take revenge on their lord’s behalf. They realize that regardless of whether they win against Kira or lose, they will be sentenced to death under the current laws.
In December 1702, following a carefully planned attack, the 47 Ronin successfully kill Kira and restore justice. The Ronin were to be executed, but the government, acknowledging their loyalty to their master, granted them an honorable death – seppuku (ritual suicide). One of the Ronin is pardoned, while the remaining 46 commit seppuku.
The monument stands as a symbol of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice for the Japanese people. Every year on December 14th, the anniversary of their revenge, a memorial ceremony is held, and thousands of people visit Sengakuji Temple to pay their respects.
The 47 Ronin Monument is a relic of a historical event that left a profound mark in history. This monument is an important symbol emphasizing the significance of the samurai code, honor, and loyalty. Both historically and culturally, the tale of the 47 Ronin continues to inspire people today.
On the eve of April 18, International Day for Monuments and Sites, a quiz was organized for schoolchildren who visited the "Genocide Memorial Complex" in Guba. The quiz was based on information about the Complex's activities, the facts of the genocide, as well as the events that took place in Azerbaijan in 1918. Active students who answered the questions correctly were presented with various gifts by the guides of the Complex.
"Sagrada Familia"
One of the most famous architectural landmarks in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, holds a special place in the history of Spanish architecture and in global architectural history. This extraordinary and magnificent temple was designed by the world-renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. He regarded the “Sagrada Familia” as the greatest and most spiritual project of his life, dedicating the last 15 years of his life entirely to this endeavor.
Construction of the temple began in 1882, and it remains unfinished to this day. After Gaudí’s death, the construction process continued based on his original sketches. Interestingly, the temple’s construction is still funded by donations and charitable contributions. The main goal is to complete the temple by 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death.
From an architectural perspective, the Sagrada Familia is entirely unique. Gaudí drew inspiration from nature, combining sculpture, mathematics, and religious symbols. The temple has three main façades: the Nativity Façade, the Passion Façade, and the Glory Façade. Each depicts certain stages in the life of Jesus Christ. The temple is planned to have 18 towers, of which 12 represent the apostles, 4 represent the Gospel writers, one represents the Virgin Mary, and the tallest one symbolizes Jesus Christ.
The interior is equally stunning. Gaudí designed the columns to resemble tree trunks, creating an interior that feels like a forest. Sunlight filters through the stained-glass windows, creating a colorful and mystical atmosphere inside.
In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI declared the Sagrada Familia a basilica, making it a sacred place of worship. Since 2005, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Sagrada Familia is not only a symbol of religious faith and craftsmanship but also proof of what the human spirit can achieve. This magnificent structure attracts millions of tourists every year and has become a symbol of Barcelona.
The organization of open lessons continues. As part of the "Let's Protect Our Historical Monuments" project, open lessons are being organized with the aim of conveying our historical truths to the younger generation. In the next event, about 20 teachers and students from Zizik Secondary School in Guba District participated.
A webinar was held in Guba city in connection with the International Day for Monuments and Sites on April 18, organized jointly by the "Genocide Memorial Complex," the "Chiraqqala Shabran" State Architectural Reserve, and the "Pir Hussein Khanegah" State Architectural Reserve.
The event was opened by Dr. Rakhshanda Bayramova, the director of the Complex, who emphasized the importance of protecting monuments on an international scale and their significance in our cultural heritage. She also noted the importance of such events in transmitting Azerbaijan’s rich historical heritage to future generations.
Following her speech, Maharram Muslumov, the director of the Pir Hussein Khanegah State Architectural Reserve, highlighted the important role of such events in the preservation and promotion of monuments.
Gunel Pirguliyeva, the director of the “Chiraqqala Shabran” State Architectural Reserve, also underscored the significance of organizing events that introduce the history and culture of Azerbaijan’s monuments. She mentioned that such initiatives contribute to the protection and promotion of cultural heritage among the public.
Later, employees of the Genocide Memorial Complex provided detailed information about monuments located in various parts of the world that are included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The speakers presented comprehensive information about famous landmarks such as Machu Picchu, Alhambra, the Sagrada Familia, the Louvre Museum, the 47 Ronin Monument, and other notable sites.
The webinar dedicated to the International Day for Monuments and Sites was attended by nearly 40 employees from the mentioned reserves.
"Terracotta Army"
The Terracotta statues were buried with the first Chinese emperor, Qin Shi Huang, who unified the Chinese empire and connected all parts of the Great Wall of China, in the 3rd century BC. According to Sima Qian, after ascending the throne in 246 BC, the 13-year-old Ying Zheng (later known as Qin Shi Huang) began constructing his tomb. His idea was that the statues should accompany him after his death and, likely, he wished to ensure his ambitions for power in the afterlife, just as he had in life.
The statues were discovered in March 1974 by a local farmer while digging an artesian well to the east of Lishan Mountain. Lishan Mountain is an artificially created necropolis for the first emperor of China. The material for some of the statues was taken from this mountain. Qin Shi Huang was buried in 210 BC. According to the great Chinese historian Sima Qian, many precious jewels and examples of craftsmanship were buried with the emperor. Additionally, his 48 concubines were buried alive with him. Over 8,000 terracotta statues of infantrymen, archers, and cavalry were hidden underground. The details of these statues are astonishing! Interestingly, every soldier statue is unique. Each has its own distinct features, height, clothing, face, and even different facial expressions. Scholars believe that the statues were modeled after real people.
The warrior and horse statues of the Terracotta Army were made in different regions of China and then transported to the outskirts of Xi’an city. The Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences compared samples from the statues and their origins, leading to the conclusion that the horse statues were made directly near the necropolis, likely for easier transportation (the horse figures weigh about 200 kilograms). The warrior statues are lighter, averaging 135 kilograms, though their exact production location remains undetermined.
The warrior figures are considered masterpieces of art because they were handmade individually using various techniques. After being formed, the statues were fired, their faces covered with a special coating material, and then painted. The warriors are distinguished by their ranks (officers, regular soldiers) and weapons (spear or sword).
It is believed that the discovered group of soldiers was positioned to protect the emperor from the east. Similar military units may have been placed in the western and southern parts of the pyramid.
In 1987, during UNESCO’s 11th session, the Terracotta Army was included in the World Heritage List as part of the “Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor.” The tomb complex of Qin Shi Huang became one of the first monuments in China to be added to this list. Visiting the Terracotta Army is often included in the official visit programs of foreign heads of state to China.
April 18 – International Day for Monuments and Sites
"Machu Picchu"
International Monuments Day is a day dedicated to preserving cultural and historical heritage. It reminds us of the importance of monuments and cultural heritage that carry traces of humanity’s past. Every monument is not only a relic of the past but also a treasure carrying valuable information that must be passed on to future generations. The observance of this day helps each of us realize our responsibility to protect this heritage and pass it on to future generations. These monuments are valuable traces reflecting the lifestyle, belief systems, arts, and cultures of the past.
One such monument that carries the traces of history is the Machu Picchu site in Peru. Machu Picchu, also known as the “Lost City of the Incas,” is located in the mountainous region of Peru at an altitude of 2,430 meters above sea level. Built in the 1450s by Pachacuti, this city was constructed far from the center of the Inca Empire, as a sacred place. The city remained hidden for a long time and was rediscovered after 400 years in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, following the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in 1532.
Machu Picchu is a complex consisting of over 200 parts, including temples, residences, and storage buildings. The population of the city, mainly engaged in agriculture and worshipping the Sun God Inti, numbered around 1,200 people. The city was built in the mountains and is noted for its excellent stonework techniques. The stones were carefully fitted together and connected by stairways, showcasing the high level of Inca construction technology and architecture.
The city is also home to numerous religious and culturally significant monuments. One of the most famous monuments is the Temple dedicated to the Sun God and the “Temple of the Three Windows.” Around the city, there are also perfectly constructed stone fortresses and buildings with windows. All of these structures demonstrate the advanced architectural and construction skills of the Incas.
Since 1983, Machu Picchu has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. When added to this list, it was recognized not only as an archaeological and architectural monument but also as an important symbol of the culture, history, and beliefs of the Incas.
Machu Picchu is also famous for its natural beauty and spectacular panoramic views. The city was recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 and today remains one of the most important tourist destinations in the world.
"Cologne Cathedral"
There are several magnificent churches around the world that stand out both for their architectural style and historical significance. Among these religious monuments, the Cologne Cathedral holds a special place. As one of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is not only a religious center but also an important historical and architectural heritage.
The Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is located in the city of Cologne, Germany, and is considered one of the most magnificent churches in the world. Construction began in 1248 and continued intermittently for a total of 632 years, with its completion in 1880. With a height of 157 meters, it was the tallest building in the world for a long period and held this record until the Washington Monument was built in 1884.
The architectural style of the cathedral is Gothic, with intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, massive arches, and two magnificent towers that draw attention. The stained glass windows are particularly fascinating—some windows consist of ancient glass from the 13th century, while modern mosaic windows created by the famous German artist Gerhard Richter were added in 2007. These modern windows are made up of approximately 11,000 different colored square glasses, adding a magnificent lighting effect to the interior space.
The Cologne Cathedral is not only an architectural wonder but also holds significant religious importance. One of its most valuable artifacts is the “Sarcophagus of the Three Wise Men.” This golden-covered tomb is believed to contain the remains of the three wise men who witnessed the birth of Jesus. It is one of the most important Christian relics, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Despite the heavy bombardment of the city of Cologne during World War II, the cathedral miraculously survived the massive destruction and continued to stand, maintaining its towering silhouette amidst the ruined cityscape.
The cathedral also houses one of the largest church bells in the world. The “Petersglocke” (Peter Bell) weighs 24 tons and is one of the largest freely swinging church bells in the world. Beneath the cathedral, there are various tunnels and secret passages built during different historical periods. Some researchers believe these passages have not yet been fully explored.
Due to the characteristics of the stones used in its construction, the building has darkened over time, which enhances its ancient and mystical appearance. Interestingly, while the cathedral is considered to be fully completed, some experts argue that the construction of the Cologne Cathedral is never truly finished, as the building constantly requires restoration and renewal work.
Visitors who climb the 533 steps to reach the cathedral’s towers are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Cologne. Every year, millions of tourists visit this historically and religiously significant monument to experience its awe-inspiring atmosphere.
