Fuzuli – The City of Revival and History in Azerbaijan

General Information

Fuzuli (Füzuli) is a city in southwestern Azerbaijan, near the borders of Iran and Armenia. It is the administrative center of the Fuzuli District and is named after the famous 16th-century Azerbaijani poet Muhammad Fuzuli.

Before 1993, Fuzuli was a prosperous city, but during the Karabakh conflict, it was occupied and almost completely destroyed. In 2020, during the Second Karabakh War, the Azerbaijani army liberated Fuzuli. Today, the city is undergoing rapid reconstruction and is transforming into a modern urban center.

History

Fuzuli has ancient roots and has served as a significant trade and cultural hub for centuries. The region was a crossroads for caravan routes connecting East and West.

During the Russian Empire and Soviet era, Fuzuli developed as an industrial and agricultural center. However, in 1993, the city was occupied by Armenian forces, leading to its destruction and the displacement of its population.

On October 17, 2020, the Azerbaijani army liberated Fuzuli. Since then, major reconstruction efforts have been underway, including the construction of new roads, schools, hospitals, and residential areas.

Economy

After liberation, extensive reconstruction projects have been initiated to restore Fuzuli’s infrastructure. Key economic sectors include:

• Agriculture – production of grain, fruits, vegetables, and grapes.
• Livestock farming – a traditional occupation in the region.
• Tourism – emerging as historical and natural sites are being restored.
• Industry and construction – major investments in rebuilding the city.

Nature and Climate

Fuzuli has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The region boasts natural beauty, with rolling hills, rivers, and green plains.

Landmarks and Attractions

1. Imamzade Mausoleum – a historical monument connected to the Islamic heritage of the region.
2. Ruins of the old city – a reminder of the war and the importance of preserving peace.
3. New architectural complexes – modern buildings symbolizing the city's revival.
4. Fuzuli International Airport – one of the first airports built after the city’s liberation, opened in 2021.
5. Kura River – beautiful landscapes surrounding one of the region’s largest rivers.

Modern Fuzuli

Since its liberation in 2020, Fuzuli has become a symbol of the rebirth of Karabakh. The city is now home to new residential districts, cultural landmarks, and a growing tourism sector. Rapid urbanization is transforming Fuzuli into a key center in southern Azerbaijan.

Fuzuli is a place of rich history, great heritage, and a promising future, set to become a model for modern reconstruction and development in the coming years.