Aghdam: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the inauguration of the Aghdam Mugham Center.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the event took place on May 10, marking a significant cultural development for the Karabakh region. The opening was attended by Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, who provided details about the new facilities at the center.
The foundation of the Aghdam Mugham Center was laid in May 2023 by President Aliyev and First Lady Aliyeva. The center is equipped with a caf©, a cinema hall, a library, and two dance studios. Its 507-seat concert hall is designed to host cultural events, including mugham performances. The center also features 15 classrooms, an exhibition hall, a conference room, and additional amenities. An open-air amphitheater with a seating capacity of 615 has been constructed on the center’s premises.
The Mugham Center aims to revive the cultural heritage of the Karabakh region, promote the ancient art of mugham, and inspire appreciation among the younger generation. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation, led by First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, has played a crucial role in the development and global recognition of mugham. Through the Foundation’s initiatives, Azerbaijani mugham has been included in UNESCO’s list of ‘Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.’
During the event, President Ilham Aliyev addressed the attendees, highlighting the significance of the Mugham Center’s opening in the revitalized city of Aghdam. He reflected on the historical context, emphasizing the importance of the date, May 10, as it coincides with the birthday of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev. The President spoke about the critical decisions made during challenging times and the path of development that Azerbaijan has pursued since 1993.
President Aliyev also discussed the progress made since the Second Karabakh War, noting the extensive construction and restoration work underway in the liberated regions. He expressed pride in Azerbaijan’s achievements and the nation’s unity and determination in the face of adversity. The President highlighted the country’s efforts in restoring infrastructure and historical monuments, as well as future projects aimed at further development in the region.
Following his address, President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva enjoyed a concert program dedicated to the occasion, celebrating the opening of the Aghdam Mugham Center and the cultural heritage it represents.