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Reports / Rapports

• Wild Irises of Bayanaul: From Natural Heritage to Regional Cultural Identity Direct link / Lien direct Report title / Titre du rapport Author / Auteur: TETIANA KRUPA Publication date / Date de publication: July 5, 2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21207663 Heritage category / Catégorie du patrimoine Cultural Landscapes / Paysages culturels; Natural Heritage / Patrimoine naturel; Cultural Brand Keywords / Mots-clés Bayanaul National Park; Wild Irises; Iris halophila; Iris scariosa; Natural Heritage; Cultural Landscape; Regional Identity; Cultural Branding; Kazakhstan; Plant Symbolism
  Abstract / Résumé

  Abstract

  This Expert Paper examines the potential of the wild irises of Bayanaul National Park (Iris halophila Pall. and Iris scariosa Willd. ex Link) as symbols of natural heritage, cultural landscape and regional identity in the Pavlodar Region of Kazakhstan. Drawing upon regional botanical literature, field observations, documentary photography and an interdisciplinary heritage approach, the study proposes a new interpretation of wild irises not only as botanical objects but also as cultural resources capable of strengthening regional identity and supporting heritage communication.

  Unlike conventional botanical or ecological studies, this paper considers the relationship between landscape, historical symbolism, local identity and visual culture. Particular attention is given to the possibility of interpreting Bayanaul's wild irises within a broader Eurasian and European cultural context through the study of plant symbolism and historical visual traditions.

  The paper concludes that the wild irises of Bayanaul represent a significant yet previously overlooked component of the region's natural and cultural heritage and deserve consideration as a potential regional symbol within future heritage interpretation and cultural branding initiatives.

  Résumé

  Cette fiche d’expertise examine le potentiel des iris sauvages du Parc national de Bayanaul (Iris halophila Pall. et Iris scariosa Willd. ex Link) comme symboles du patrimoine naturel, du paysage culturel et de l’identité régionale de Pavlodar, Kazakhstan. Fondée sur la littérature botanique régionale, les observations de terrain et une approche interdisciplinaire, elle propose d’interpréter ces plantes comme ressources pour la valorisation patrimoniale, le dialogue culturel et le développement d’une image territoriale durable.

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• The International Working Group “In Search of the Sun”: An International Initiative for Heritage Documentation, Monitoring and Preservation in the Caucasus (2018–2019) Direct link / Lien direct Report title / Titre du rapport Author / Auteur: RIZVAN NAJAF OGLU HUSEYNOV Publication date / Date de publication: July 12, 2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21322568 Heritage category / Catégorie du patrimoine Archaeological Heritage / Patrimoine archéologique; Historic Objects / Objets historiques; Monuments and Historic Buildings / Monuments et bâtiments historiques; Cultural Landscapes / Paysages culturels; Intangible Cultural Heritage / Patrimoine culturel immatériel; Military Heritage / Patrimoine militaire; Documentary Heritage / Patrimoine documentaire Keywords / Mots-clés International Heritage Cooperation; Cultural Heritage; Azerbaijan; Caucasus; Heritage Documentation; Heritage Monitoring; Interdisciplinary Research; Architectural Heritage; Archaeological Heritage; Intangible Cultural Heritage; Digital Heritage; Preventive Conservation; Community Engagement; UNESCO; Civic Heritage Initiatives
  Abstract / Résumé

  Abstract

  This Open Expert Report presents the experience of the International Working Group In Search of the Sun, an interdisciplinary and international initiative established in 2018 to document, monitor, and promote the preservation of cultural heritage across Azerbaijan and the wider Caucasus region. The report analyses the methodological foundations of the initiative, its institutional framework, interdisciplinary approach, and the role of voluntary professional cooperation in safeguarding both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

  Drawing upon field investigations, heritage monitoring, documentary research, public outreach, and international academic collaboration, the report demonstrates how civic initiatives can complement the work of governmental institutions and international organizations. Particular attention is given to the integration of archaeological, architectural, historical, ethnographic, and digital documentation methods, as well as to the development of professional networks connecting specialists from different countries and disciplines.

  The report further evaluates the contribution of the Working Group to public heritage awareness, community engagement, educational activities, and digital preservation. It argues that systematic documentation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and open international cooperation represent essential components of contemporary heritage management.

  The experience of In Search of the Sun offers a transferable model for future international initiatives dedicated to documenting and preserving cultural heritage in regions facing environmental, social, or political challenges.

  Résumé

  Ce rapport d’expertise présente l’expérience du groupe de travail international In Search of the Sun, une initiative interdisciplinaire consacrée à la documentation, au suivi et à la préservation du patrimoine culturel en Azerbaïdjan et dans le Caucase. Il analyse la méthodologie du projet, sa coopération internationale, son approche interdisciplinaire ainsi que le rôle des initiatives citoyennes dans la sauvegarde du patrimoine matériel et immatériel.

  Le rapport souligne l’importance de la documentation systématique, de la collaboration scientifique internationale et de l’implication des communautés locales comme fondements d’une gestion durable du patrimoine culturel.

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