Shusha, Azerbaijan Highlights Islamic Cuisine at International Gastronomy Day

Shusha, Azerbaijan – Nestled in the cultural heart of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Shusha has set the stage for an extraordinary showcase of Islamic cuisine as part of the prestigious International Gastronomy Day event. This year’s event is especially significant, as Azerbaijani Shusha was recently honored with the title of “Cultural Capital of the Islamic World,” making it the perfect venue to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Islamic countries from around the globe.

Aydin Karimov, the Azerbaijani President’s special representative for the Shusha district, expressed his pride and enthusiasm at the event’s opening ceremony. Speaking to attendees, Karimov emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “We are deeply honored to host the International Gastronomy Day here in Shusha. This year holds a special meaning as Shusha has been named the ‘Cultural Capital of the Islamic World.’ With this prestigious title, we are more committed than ever to showcasing the culinary diversity and cultural richness of the Islamic world. All preparations have been meticulously made to ensure that this event is held at the highest level.”

Azerbaijani Shusha: Promoting Islamic Culinary Traditions

International Gastronomy Day, currently being hosted in Shusha, is the result of a collaborative effort between the State Tourism Agency, the Shusha City State Reserve Department, and the Azerbaijan National Culinary Center. This partnership has brought together an impressive lineup of events, including an open-air tasting session that celebrates the rich tradition of iftar—the meal that Muslims share to break their fast during Ramadan. This communal meal highlights the cultural significance of sharing food and the special bond it creates among Muslim communities.

At the heart of the event is a diverse array of culinary experts representing Islamic countries such as Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. These nations are not only culinary powerhouses but also key players in the burgeoning halal tourism industry. Their participation in Shusha’s International Gastronomy Day underscores the role of food in fostering cultural exchange and unity across borders.

A highlight of the event is the joint iftar table, featuring dishes from Azerbaijan, Iran, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan. This symbolic table not only represents the rich culinary traditions of these countries but also aligns with a UNESCO nomination that celebrates “Iftar and related socio-cultural traditions.” The multinational nomination is part of UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. By bringing together these nations, Shusha is not only reaffirming its status as a cultural hub but also celebrating the shared traditions that unite the Islamic world.

A Feast of Culture Beyond Food

While food remains the central theme of International Gastronomy Day, Shusha’s celebration goes far beyond culinary delights. The event also serves as a platform to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world. One of the major attractions at the event is an exhibition that highlights national tourism brands, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore the gastronomic and cultural heritage of the Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur regions.

This exhibition features a dazzling array of culinary traditions and artisanal crafts from the region, showcasing everything from traditional Azerbaijani dishes to intricate handmade crafts. The goal is not only to celebrate the flavors of Azerbaijan but also to promote its cultural identity as a crossroads of civilizations.

Additionally, visitors are treated to an impressive exhibition of centuries-old manuscripts, religious writings, and calligraphic texts. These works, many of which are considered priceless artifacts, offer a glimpse into the rich spiritual and artistic traditions of the Islamic world. The exhibition is titled “The Art of Illuminated Manuscripts” and includes miniature works of art that have been carefully preserved for generations. This particular art form has been recognized by UNESCO and is part of its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Shusha: A Culinary and Cultural Capital

Shusha’s recent designation as the “Cultural Capital of the Islamic World” has brought new attention to this historic city. While Shusha has long been regarded as a symbol of Azerbaijani culture and resilience, its new status highlights its importance not only within Azerbaijan but across the Islamic world. Hosting International Gastronomy Day is a fitting tribute to the city’s rich cultural history and its role in promoting Islamic heritage on the global stage.

The event also comes at a time when Shusha is undergoing a cultural revival. The city has faced many challenges over the decades, particularly during the conflict over the Karabakh region. However, the Azerbaijani government has made significant efforts to restore Shusha’s cultural landmarks and revitalize its artistic and culinary heritage. The International Gastronomy Day is a testament to these efforts, showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural life and its importance as a center for Islamic culture.

For Azerbaijan, the event is not just a celebration of Islamic cuisine, but also an opportunity to strengthen its position in the global halal tourism market. As the demand for halal-certified destinations grows, Shusha is positioning itself as a key player in this market by promoting its rich Islamic heritage and diverse culinary traditions.

The Rising Importance of Islamic Culinary Tourism

Islamic culinary tourism is rapidly gaining momentum, with halal food becoming a major draw for tourists around the world. The participation of countries like Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Iran at Shusha’s International Gastronomy Day highlights the growing interest in halal tourism and the role that food plays in shaping cultural experiences.

In recent years, Islamic tourism has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in the travel industry, with Muslim travelers seeking destinations that offer halal-certified food, accommodations, and cultural experiences. Countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates have already made significant strides in catering to this market, with halal-friendly hotels, restaurants, and cultural tours becoming increasingly popular.

Shusha, with its rich Islamic heritage and culinary traditions, is well-positioned to tap into this growing market. The city’s participation in International Gastronomy Day underscores its potential as a destination for halal tourism, particularly as more Muslim travelers seek culturally enriching experiences that align with their values.

A Legacy of Cultural Exchange

One of the key themes of International Gastronomy Day in Shusha is the idea of cultural exchange. The event not only brings together culinary experts from across the Islamic world but also highlights the shared cultural and religious traditions that unite these nations. Through food, art, and craftsmanship, Shusha is promoting a message of unity and mutual respect.

As part of this celebration, visitors have the chance to experience the best of Islamic cuisine and culture, from the intricate flavors of Azerbaijani dishes to the spiritual artistry of Islamic calligraphy. The event serves as a reminder that food is not just sustenance but a powerful tool for fostering understanding and building bridges between cultures.

Shusha’s International Gastronomy Day is more than just a culinary event – it’s a celebration of Islamic heritage, culture, and unity. With its rich history, vibrant traditions, and recent designation as the “Cultural Capital of the Islamic World,” Shusha is poised to become a leading destination for Islamic tourism. By hosting this event, Shusha is not only showcasing the diversity of Islamic cuisine but also promoting the values of cultural exchange, mutual respect, and unity.

As Islamic culinary tourism continues to grow, events like International Gastronomy Day will play an increasingly important role in promoting the cultural richness of the Islamic world. Shusha, with its unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine, is set to become a key player in this dynamic and rapidly expanding market.

In celebrating the culinary and cultural traditions of the Islamic world, Shusha’s International Gastronomy Day reaffirms the city’s role as a vibrant center of cultural diplomacy. Through food, art, and shared traditions, Shusha is helping to build a more connected and culturally enriched world.