President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a relevant Decree.
The Decree states that urban planning and architecture in Azerbaijan have a rich history spanning centuries. Major cities located along the Silk Road, which served as important trade, craft, and cultural centers and maintained close economic, political, and cultural ties with Eastern countries, played an exceptional role in shaping the country’s distinctive architectural identity.
Historic cities of Azerbaijan, which represent outstanding examples of urban planning and architecture, have expanded in line with architectural trends of different eras while preserving the core characteristics of local culture.
Today, fortresses, caravanserais, mosques, temples, and mausoleums protected by the state reflect the brilliant traditions of national architecture. World-renowned monuments such as the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, Khudafarin Bridge, the Ateshgah architectural complex, and other unique examples have become symbols of Azerbaijan’s architectural heritage.
Heritage sites included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO—Icherisheher and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace Complex, the Maiden Tower, the Historic Centre of Sheki and the Khan’s Palace—rightfully occupy a distinguished place among global masterpieces of urban planning and architecture.
The creative legacy of the great medieval architect Ajami Nakhchivani, whose jubilee was celebrated within the framework of UNESCO, represents the pinnacle of architectural schools of the era and had a profound influence on the architecture of Azerbaijan and the Near East.
By the mid-19th century, noticeable changes emerged in the planning structure and architectural style of Azerbaijani cities. Rapidly industrializing Baku began to form its unique appearance as a synthesis of Eastern and Western architectural traditions.
In the 20th century, special attention was given to the creative use of national traditions in architecture and urban planning. The work of prominent architects Mikayil Huseynov and Sadig Dadashov played a leading role in shaping a new architectural style rooted in national heritage.
The years of leadership of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev marked a distinct stage in the development of Azerbaijan’s urban planning and architecture, with significant decisions taken to preserve historic cities and restore architectural monuments.
Following the restoration of independence, large-scale architectural projects reflecting advanced global approaches and national experience were implemented. The capital’s landscape was enriched by iconic landmarks such as the Heydar Aliyev Center, the Flame Towers, and the White City complex.
Architecture and urban planning have been identified as priority areas within Azerbaijan’s socio-economic development strategy, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
After the Victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, extensive reconstruction and revitalization works have been carried out in the liberated territories. Between 2020 and 2025, master plans were developed for more than 100 settlements, including 12 cities. The restoration of the historical architectural environment of Shusha stands as a manifestation of national determination.
Azerbaijan is recognized as a reliable partner in addressing global challenges related to climate change and urban development. Joint initiatives with UN-Habitat and national urban forums demonstrate successful international cooperation. The decision to hold the 13th World Urban Forum WUF13 in Baku in 2026 highlights Azerbaijan’s growing role in sustainable urban development.
The Decree aims to preserve Azerbaijan’s centuries-old urban planning and architectural traditions and to promote the application of progressive approaches responsive to contemporary challenges.
Under the Decree, the Presidential Administration is tasked with preparing and submitting proposals for an Action Plan related to the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” within one month.
