More than a week archeological excavations have been carried out in Artsakh. Artsakh Republic`s ” Service for protection of historical environment” NCSO`s archaeological expedition since March 21 has been working in the area of “The Mosque” monument in Shushi. The mosque was built in 1883 by Iranian architect Karbeli Sefi Khan. In Soviet times, the mosque was converted to History-archeological Museum. Today, “The Mosque,” in Shushi although is partially damaged, but standing. According to Deputy Minister of Economy Sergey Shahverdyan, archaeological excavations in the area of the “Upper Mosque” will allow to make accurate restoration of the monument.
Archaeological expedition leaded by candidate of historical sciences Njdeh Yeranyan is currently working on the eastern and western graveyards of the monument. “Both the findings and the subsequent restoration work is the best evidence that the protected area is not only the cultural heritage of Artsakh but also the foreigners. This is a vivid manifestation of cultural tolerance” says expedition leader Njdeh Yeranyan. Excavations get a clear picture of the historical environment of the mosque.
Artsakh people’s attitude towards foreigners is evidence and shows the fact that the roof of “The Mosque” has already been restored in 2008-2009. Accept the “Upper Mosque” there is another structure in Shushi “Lower Mosque”, which was built earlier than the previous, but is still standing. The excavations of “Upper Mosque” will last 20 days.
