Kalbajar

Kalbajar is renowned for its rich natural resources, including gold, silver, tellurium, and limestone. The region is also famous for its Istisu hot mineral springs, praised by Azerbaijani scientist Mirali Gashgay for their unique healing properties, comparable to Karlovy Vary waters in the Czech Republic. Discovered in 1976, ancient petroglyphs near Ayichyngulu and Parichungul Peaks depict Early Bronze Age life—ritual dances, hunting, and wheeled carts. Kalbajar is also home to the Khudavang Monastery, a 6th–7th century Albanian Christian complex later restored by Prince Hasan Jalal. This sacred site stands as a remarkable example of Caucasian Albanian architecture. Silk embroideries and symbolic motifs further enrich the cultural identity of the region.