Memory of The Mountains: Centuries-Old Cultural Heritage in the North Caucasus

In the contemporary period, instability is observed in the ethno-political situation of the peoples of the North Caucasus, which is characterized not only by the region’s socio-economic conditions but also by socio-cultural processes. Recently, the issue of historical memory has gained relevance in the socio-cultural life of the region, and the cultural heritage that local communities have formed over centuries has become the subject of numerous studies. The main aim of this article is to examine the cultural heritage created by the Ossetians living in the mountainous areas of the North Caucasus throughout history, to determine whether cultural or historical memory predominates for them, and to assess the impact of these memory mechanisms on socio-cultural and ethno-political processes in the contemporary period. Additionally, the study addresses the reactivation of ethnic identity in the era of digital transformation, as well as traditions and their preservation mechanisms. The research indicates that historical memory plays a significant role in the dynamics of socio-cultural processes. This situation compels each ethnic group in the North Caucasus to protect its national identity and historical memory, which increases ethno-political risks in the region. The study shows that strengthening unity and peace among the ethnic and religious groups of the North Caucasus, including the Ossetians, as well as activating cooperation mechanisms, is essential. Directing the historical consciousness of the region’s inhabitants from historical memory toward cultural memory can help achieve these objectives. The article employs historical, descriptive, analytical, observational, and comparative qualitative methods.