The Kura-Araxes Culture (KAC) is one of the most distinctive, long-lived and yet little-known archaeological complexes of the ancient Near East, which existed roughly between 3500-2500 BC. Despite increasing investigations and studies of the KAC communities in the Caucasus region, our knowledge of Azerbaijan is still fragmentary. The primary objective of this project is to conduct an in depth study of Azerbaijan to gain a comprehensive understanding of KAC communities living in the region. However, currently this understanding is largely confined to ceramic assemblages. This study aims to fill this gap by being the first to explore the existing fragmented records surrounding the settlement pattern and the nature of settlement structures, funerary practices, and building tradition in Azerbaijan. As a result of this analysis, it is argued that the KAC in this region exhibited a sense of unity with adjacent regions in the Caucasus, as evidenced by shared artifacts and features. Notably, the study also identifies some distinctive traits that are unique to these communities. This presentation will focus on positioning Azerbaijan within the wider picture of the Kura-Araxes Culture and will highlight its role in enhancing the understanding of different phases of the culture.
