Qazmalar

Qazmalar refers to ancient or historical underground dwellings, tunnels, or cave systems, particularly those created by human activity. The term is most often associated with regions of Azerbaijan, where such structures were historically used for shelter, storage, or defense. Qazmalar were often carved into soft rock formations, like limestone or sandstone, providing a relatively constant temperature and protection from the elements or potential enemies. These structures can range from simple single-chamber dwellings to more complex networks of interconnected tunnels and rooms. The study of Qazmalar offers valuable insights into the past lives, architectural skills, and social organization of the communities who built and inhabited them. Documentation and preservation efforts are ongoing in some areas to protect these fragile historical sites.