Relief, Protection and Climate in the Architecture of Mountain Peoples

Mountain village architecture of Azerbaijan is characterized by planning according to the relief, a step (terrace) construction system, and constructive engineering solutions. Houses are placed along the slope, follow the relief line, and are built with minimal interference to the soil layer. This approach reduces large excavations, minimizes the risk of landslides and erosion, and makes the construction process more economically efficient. Thick stone walls and supporting structures on the lower floors ensure stability, while light materials on the upper floors balance the load distribution. The back walls of some houses rest on the soil layer, providing thermal insulation and maintaining the stability of the internal temperature. Stepped construction and topographical planning also serve a socio-spatial function; multi-level spatial structure increases solidarity within the community, expands mutual control and security opportunities, and creates conditions for the formation of public and semi-public spaces. As a result, Azerbaijani mountain architecture demonstrates a model of sustainable living that integrates engineering, ecological, and social aspects and constitutes an example for modern sustainable architectural concepts.