The Azeris, also known as Azerbaijani, are the second-largest ethnic group in Iran, comprising approximately 16-24% of the population, based on various estimates. Predominantly residing in the northwest regions, they have a deep-rooted history in the cultural and political landscape of Iran.
Ethnologue estimates from 2016 indicate that over 10.9 million people in Iran speak the Azerbaijani language. Their geographic reach extends beyond Iran into the Republic of Azerbaijan and areas spanning the Caucasus to the Iranian plateau.
Azeris have historically been part of Iran, with northern territories ceded in the 19th century through the Gulistan (1813) and Turkmenchay (1828) treaties.
Natural and Contemporary Geography
Azeris primarily inhabit the northwestern provinces of East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, Ardabil, and Zanjan. These regions are mountainous, with fertile plains and rivers flowing into Lake Urmia and the Caspian Sea. Significant Azeri populations also live in Tehran and other major cities.
Azeris primarily speak Azerbaijani, a language from the Oghuz branch, which is closely related to Turkish and Turkmen. Additionally, their bilingualism—fluency in both Azerbaijani and Persian—helps them integrate into Iran’s broader society, while also preserving their unique linguistic heritage.
Historically, many Azeris practiced agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. In rural areas, traditional farming techniques and community-based living still thrive. Urban Azeris are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, playing a significant role in Iran’s business sectors. The Azeris also cherish close family ties, with extended families forming the backbone of social structure.
Azeri cuisine is diverse and full of flavor, influenced by agricultural traditions and cultural exchanges. Key dishes include:
Azeri clothing beautifully reflects cultural pride and practicality.
Azeris are masters of various crafts, each embodying their deep cultural roots and centuries-old traditions. Below is an overview of their most notable crafts:
Each Azeri province has its unique contributions to this rich cultural tapestry. In future sections, we will delve deeper into the specific crafts of each region, celebrating their local artistry and traditions.
Azeri music features two main forms: Mugham (classical) and Ashiqi (folk), both rich in emotional storytelling. Instruments like the tar, kamancheh, saz, and duduk accompany tales of love, heroism, and spirituality, with epic stories like Koroglu passed down through generations.
“The Azeris are renowned for their carpets, music, and craftsmanship, each reflecting their deep cultural pride, artistic heritage, and connection to their history and land.”