NAKHICHEVAN Meaning and
Definition
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Nakhichevan, also known as Nakhchivan or Naxçıvan, is a geographic region and an autonomous republic situated in the southwestern part of Azerbaijan. It is an exclave, meaning that it is separated from the rest of Azerbaijan by Armenia. Nakhichevan borders Iran to the south and Turkey to the west, positioning it at a culturally diverse crossroads between the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
Historically, Nakhichevan has been an important area due to its strategic location, acting as a gateway for various trade routes throughout history. The region has been inhabited since ancient times and has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous civilizations. Today, Nakhichevan has a diverse ethnic makeup, with Azerbaijanis forming the majority, alongside minority communities such as Armenians, Russians, and Kurds.
Nakhichevan encompasses a rich cultural heritage, boasting a number of architectural, historical, and archaeological sites. One of its most prominent landmarks is the mausoleum of Noah, which is believed to be the burial place of the biblical figure Noah. The region also houses several medieval architectural wonders, including the Alinja Fortress, the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, and the Khan Palace.
As a result of its cultural significance and historical legacy, Nakhichevan serves as a major tourist attraction. Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of architectural splendor, natural beauty, and its role as a crossroads of various civilizations throughout the ages. Additionally, Nakhichevan is renowned for its handicrafts, particularly its traditional carpet weaving, which is highly regarded and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Overall, Nakhichevan is an autonomous republic with a rich cultural and historical heritage, attracting visitors with its diverse ethnic composition, distinct architectural landmarks
Etymology of NAKHICHEVAN
The word "Nakhichevan" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "Nakhch" and "Ivan".
The first part, "Nakhch", originates from the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, an area in present-day Azerbaijan. It is believed that "Nakhch" can be traced back to the ancient Nakh peoples who inhabited this region. The exact etymology of "Nakhch" is not well documented.
The second part, "Ivan", is derived from the Turkic word "İwan" (pronounced e-van) which means "palace" or "hall" in the Turkic languages. This term was borrowed from the Persian language, specifically the word "Īvāneh", meaning "a palace or an archway". Over time, this Persian word was adopted and adapted into various Turkic languages, including Azerbaijani.
