Explanation and Configuration of South Caucasus and Azerbaijan (NW Iran) Cultures during the Bronze and Iron Ages

Abstract

The Khojaly-Gadabay (Xocali-G.d.b.y) culture is well-established in the archaeological literature of theRepublic of Azerbaijan. Chronologically, it spans the Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age in the Caucasus region,and Iron Ages I and II in northwest Iran. Within archaeological literature, this culture has various designations.In the Republic of Azerbaijan, it is known as Central Zaghafia and Ganja-Garabagh culture, while in Armeniait is referred to as Lechashen-Metsamor culture. However, the name Khojaly-Gadabay prevails due to its initialidentification in this Azerbaijani region. Consequently, most archaeological data on this culture comes fromcemeteries, with no settlements identified. This article utilizes a descriptive-analytical approach, drawing onarchaeological data and comparisons, to explore the culture's key characteristics. The study seeks to answer twofundamental questions: What are the essential archaeological features of this culture within the studied region?How can we explain the point of formation, origin, and spread of this culture? Unveiling these unknowns willprovide a clearer understanding and a suitable foundation for studying this culture in northwest Iran.