President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has attended the opening of the Center of Mahsati Ganjavi built in Ganja with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

The measures taken in recent years on the improvement of Ganja, which is considered one of the main centers of the ancient Silk Road, are noted for the incorporation of interesting elements into the appearance of this ancient city. Today Ganja cherishes its history, promotes the personalities it has nurtured and perpetuates their memory. On 16 January 2013, President Ilham Aliyev signed an executive order on celebrating the 900th anniversary of the works of Mahsati Ganjavi. In accordance with this document, numerous events, exhibitions and concerts have been organized and the Center of Mahsati Ganjavi built in Ganja. In front of the center demonstrating the rich heritage of Mahsati Ganjavi there is a majestic statue of the poetess and a garden named after Mahsati.

The head of state cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the center.

President Ilham Aliyev was informed that the construction of the center began in April 2013. The building , constructed in a classic architectural style, houses an art gallery devoted to the works of the poet and a reading room. The reading room also has a collection of books about the life and work of great leader Heydar Aliyev, President Ilham Aliyev and the patroness of our culture, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva. The electronic kiosk established here demonstrates verses by Mahsati in Azerbaijani, Russian and English languages. Also on display are books about the literary heritage of Mahsati and Nizami, and the wealth of Azerbaijani carpets. Exhibitions and concerts dedicated to the 900th anniversary of the works of Mahsati Ganjavi were held in the ancient French cities of Reims and Mulhouse in November and December of last year with the organizational support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, which is noted for conducting various activities to promote the rich culture of Azerbaijan. Photographs documenting these activities are also exhibited at the center.

The center operates an exhibition of national musical instruments. Visitors can obtain extensive scientific information about the life and work not only of Mahsati Ganjavi but also other prominent Azerbaijani poets and thinkers, as well as folk music. The exhibition displays a collection of national dress worn by women who lived in the era of Mahsati. The picture gallery displays various placards devoted to Mahsati Ganjavi, her verses, works of art and monumental works. There is a sculpture of the poetess in Mahsati’s room. Miniature works of art are demonstrated by means of a projector here. The center also has a music studio, a music library, Mugham and piano departments, and a conference room.

President Ilham Aliyev toured the center and the area adjoining to the Mahsati park.

The head of state expressed his satisfaction with the work done and gave appropriate instructions.