scenic Tughto the roots of civilization
Tugh is located in Khojavend District, in the foothills of Karabakh. Considered a scientific and cultural centre of the region, this village boasts many historical sites dating back many centuries.
One of these is Azikh Cave, which proves that Azerbaijan was one of the settlement sites of ancient humans. Situated 5 km from Tugh village, this cave was the site of an archaeological exploration led by the founder of Azerbaijani palaeontology, the prominent archaeologist Mammadali Huseynov, in 1968. During these excavations, a lower jawbone fragment belonging to an ancient human, estimated to be 350,000-400,000 years old, was discovered. Additionally, various animal bones and traces of hearths, indicating the activities of the people living here, were found in this multi-layered site.
Located 2 km from Tugh is Taghlar Cave. Comprehensive research was conducted at this fascinating archaeological site, leading to the discovery of various animal bones, tools and stone artefacts. These findings have played a vital role in the study of the Mousterian culture in the Caucasus.
Considering the stunning nature, ecological resources and tourism potential of Tugh and the surrounding area, its territory was declared as ‘Tugh State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve’ by a Presidential Decree on 16 June 2023.