nscArchaeology, Ethnology & Anthropology of EurasiaАрхеология, этнография и антропология Евразии1563-0110IAET SB RAS10.17746/1563-0110.2026.54.2.037-044nsc-2468Research ArticleTHE METAL AGES AND MEDIEVAL PERIODЭПОХА ПАЛЕОМЕТАЛЛАArchitectural Transmission of Mesopotamian Stepped Forms in Cultic and Funerary Monuments of the Mughan Plain (Southern Caucasus)MustafayevM. M.

AZ1143; G. Javid Avenue 115, Central Scientific Academic Town; Baku

Mustafayev_info@yahoo.comNasirovaL. S.

AZ1143; G. Javid Avenue 115, Central Scientific Academic Town; Baku

nasirovalala2@gmail.comInstitute of Archaeology and Anthropology, Azerbaijan National Academy of SciencesAzerbaijan2026260720265423744Copyright © Mustafayev M.M., Nasirova L.S., 20262026Mustafayev M.M., Nasirova L.S.Mustafayev M.M., Nasirova L.S.Данная работа распространяется под лицензией Creative Commons Attribution 4.0.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.https://journal.archaeology.nsc.ru/jour/article/view/2468

   This article explores cultural ties between Mesopotamia, Elam, and Southern Caucasus, focusing on the architectural tradition of stepped temples (ziggurats). Shrines in Azerbaijan are compared with those in Mesopotamia (Ubaid, Sumer, III Dynasty of Ur) and Elam (southwestern Iran, Khuzestan). A typological and chronological classification of architectural forms is proposed; parallels in the construction, decoration, and function of shrines are analyzed.

   Special attention is paid to the possible routes whereby cultural traditions were transmitted by means of trade and the diffusion of ideas.

   One example is the infl uence of Mesopotamian architectural forms on the medieval shrines of Azerbaijan. The economic background of cultural transmission between those regions is assessed. We conclude that further comparative studies in the Near East and Southern Caucasus are needed to specify the nature of these ties.

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The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest present.