The findings have been encountered in the archaeological excavation area (SCPX KP 247) in Karpijlitapa of the Goranboy district.
The MOU underpins the intention of both parties to cooperate in support of the “Azerbaijan Cultural Heritage Project” related to the discovery in Karpijlitapa. This is also in line with SCPC’s commitment made in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for SCPX to address significant archaeological finds during construction activities.
Abulfaz Garayev: “I am thankful that BP is providing this opportunity for us to further excavate and study the valuable findings that we have uncovered at the Kerpijlitepe area of Goranboy region. The experts believe that these findings are historically and culturally the most valuable so far that we have made in Azerbaijan. There appears to be a whole residential area from the middle ages (9th – 12th centuries), including a castle. I hope that we will be able to uncover the entire area and preserve it as part of Azerbaijan’s heritage.”
BP AGT Regional President Gary Jones said: “As Azerbaijan’s long-term oil and gas partner and a caring neighbour of communities where it operates, BP has been closely involved with the country’s rich cultural legacy since the early days of its presence here. Supporting Azerbaijan’s amazing culture and promotion and preservation of its cultural heritage is part of our long-term commitment to Azerbaijan and its people. I look forward to visiting the newly discovered findings together with the Minister Garayev, once excavation of the whole area is completed.”
The work-scope to be undertaken in the area includes two months additional excavation work to be conducted by a team of six archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the Academy of Sciences supported by twelve labourers.
It is expected that initiatives like the development of a 3-D model of the archaeological site will also be investigated. If implemented, this will help dissemination of the information to be obtained. All discovered artefacts will be recorded and preserved.