Khinalig - candidate for "Best Tourist Village" title

Azerbaijan has nominated the Khinalig village for the "Best Tourist Village" competition announced by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Report informs, citing the State Tourism Agency.

According to the agency, the project's primary purpose is to identify the best examples of tourism development in rural areas, as well as to identify villages that have preserved their uniqueness, cultural and historical heritage for many years, and meet the requirements of modern tourism.

Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnographic Reserve was established in 2007 in the territory of Khinalig village, which is protected by the state as a monument of world importance. The Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnographic Reserve, which operates under the auspices of the State Tourism Agency, is considered an example of cultural heritage with a unique medieval architectural structure and a mysterious natural landscape.

In 2020, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List as "Khinalig, a medieval mountainous village." The process of writing a nomination file for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List is underway. The document, prepared by the State Tourism Agency and included in the Tentative List, mentions the village's ancient language, nomadic lifestyle, ancient architectural traditions in the Caucasus Mountains and the Khinalig community's harmonious way of life in harmony with nature.

Archaeological excavations and research are being carried out in the ancient Khinalig village. Currently, excavations are underway at the old cemetery Kima Ligebirish, which covers ​​more than 3 hectares. Material and cultural samples found during the excavation are now kept in the scientific fund of the reserve, and some of them are displayed to local and foreign tourists visiting Khinalig. In addition, ancient epigraphic monuments and rare manuscripts found in the village are studied. Religious monuments – shrines and tombs located in the village are registered.

One of the elements of the cultural heritage of Khinalig village is its unique architectural style. To preserve this style, houses, which are in a state of emergency due to landslides, are being repaired and restored. At present, 16 houses are being repaired in Khinalig village based on the appeals of citizens.

Before the repair work began in the area, the specialists of the State Tourism Agency prepared a booklet "Khinalig-Restoration Instructions" following international standards and the Regeneration Plan of the area.

The results of the UNWTO competition will be announced at the 24th annual session in Morocco by the end of 2021. Villages that win the UNWTO's Best Tourist Village award will be included in the modernization program.