Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva participated in a series of events on March 27, marking significant developments in Shusha, including the reopening of the historic Chol Gala Mosque and its spring. The restoration efforts were carried out by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation with support from PASHA Holding.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Chol Gala Mosque, one of 17 mosques from the 19th century in Shusha, was severely damaged during the occupation. Its restoration included the entrance area, prayer hall, and auxiliary rooms. The original stones were restored, and the mihrab was rebuilt with Quranic verses and intricate patterns. The adjacent Chol Gala spring, dating back to the 19th century, was also restored to its original architectural style.

The President and First Lady also inspected new catering facilities and ongoing construction projects on Karabakh Street. These projects, part of a public-private partnership, include a hotel, offices, and the Shusha Reserve Administration building. The development aligns with efforts to preserve Shusha's historic architecture.

Their visit included the Shusha Treatment and Wellness Center, a 90-bed medical facility with both inpatient and outpatient services. Laid in 2021, the center features departments for various medical treatments and is equipped to meet international standards.

In addition, they reviewed the construction of the Yeni Shusha Mosque. The mosque's design incorporates symbolic numbers representing the liberation of Shusha and Karabakh. Its minarets will be 72 meters high, and the mosque's architecture is a collaboration between Azerbaijani and Italian architects.

Overall, these projects underscore the ongoing efforts to restore and develop Shusha as a cultural and historical hub of Azerbaijan.