BP unveils groundbreaking books on Azerbaijan’s history and cultural heritage PHOTO

British energy giant BP presented two landmark books on the history of Azerbaijan during a special event held on May 14. 

The presentation, attended by media and academic figures, showcased the company’s commitment to supporting research into Azerbaijan’s national identity and historical development, Caliber.Az correspondent reports from the scene.

The two volumes — Azerbaijan: A Historical-Geographical Atlas and Azerbaijan: A Historical-Ethnographic Atlas — are comprehensive scholarly works that explore the origins of Azerbaijan as a country. The books represent an ambitious initiative that combines ancient and medieval cartographic materials with historical and ethnocultural narratives, offering a new perspective on the region's evolution.

“These narratives are underpinned by verified historical facts and documentary evidence, illustrating Azerbaijan’s emergence as an ancient country,” said Tamam Bayatly, Head of the Press Office at BP-Azerbaijan. “The publications are a pioneering fusion of detailed cartographic analysis with historical and ethnographic documentation. This unique methodology gives readers a vivid and accurate depiction of Azerbaijan’s historical landscape and provides a deeper understanding of the ethnic composition of its people through the geographic and cultural evolution of the land and the surrounding region. A careful study of historical maps and archival documents allows for a comprehensive and precise view of Azerbaijan’s historical geography.”

Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, BP’s Vice President for the Caspian Region, emphasised that the project reflects the company’s desire to contribute to broader recognition of Azerbaijan’s historical and regional significance.

“By supporting this research, we aim to contribute to a fuller appreciation of Azerbaijan’s historical importance and its role in shaping the development of the entire region,” Aslanbayli stated. “This vital scholarly work is a tribute to the rich and diverse heritage of this ancient land known as Azerbaijan and the remarkable civilisation of the Azerbaijani Turks. We believe these books will serve as valuable resources for academics, researchers, and a wide audience interested in the region’s historical trajectory.”

The project’s lead author, Professor Hasan Hasanov, Doctor of Historical Sciences, noted that the two volumes unveiled represent only the beginning. “These are the first two of a planned nine-volume series,” he said, adding that work on the remaining seven volumes is already in progress.

The books have been published in both Azerbaijani and English, ensuring accessibility to both domestic and international audiences. Copies will be donated to libraries, universities, and relevant research institutions to support continued scholarship.

The total cost of the project amounts to 178,540 manats, equivalent to approximately $105,000.

By Tamilla Hasanova