International Mugham Centre

The roots of mugham run deep into the rich traditions of Eastern musical culture. This distinctive genre has been passed down through the centuries, preserved as a treasured artistic legacy from one generation to the next. Recognised by UNESCO in 2003 as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity and inscribed in 2008 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, mugham’s significance is acknowledged worldwide, with Azerbaijan widely regarded as its cradle. This recognition reflects not only its historical importance, but also its enduring influence on the country’s cultural landscape today.

In Azerbaijan, the mugham tradition has been further enriched by music festivals held in Karabakh, particularly in Shusha, across different periods. These gatherings served as vibrant creative forums where poets, musicians and intellectuals came together to explore the subtle intricacies of the art form.