Kelaghayi is the traditional women’s headscarf of the Republic of Azerbaijan, produced as a square silk cloth approximately 50x50 cm, classified as intangible cultural heritage.
This craft dates back over 1,500 years, developed in Sheki city and Basgal village of the Republic of Azerbaijan along the Silk Road. In November 2014, UNESCO inscribed “the traditional art and symbolism of Kelaghayi, making and wearing women’s silk headscarves” on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Production Process
• Weaving of thin local silk threads on traditional looms.
• Dyeing with natural plant materials, where each color carries specific social meanings such as red for joyful occasions and dark tones for mourning.
• Printing patterns using wooden stamps coated with rosin, paraffin, and oil, featuring geometric and floral designs like the buta symbol (fire and eternity).
Cultural Significance
Kelaghayi in the Republic of Azerbaijan serves to protect the head from environmental elements and features in social rituals such as weddings and gifting. It preserves traditional knowledge and skills, documented in international exhibitions and local events like Kelaghayi Day.