The origin of Red
Village is closely linked to the historical movement of Jewish communities
across the Near East and the Caucasus. Mountain Jews trace their ancestry to
ancient Jewish tribes who migrated to the region possibly between the 5th
century BC and the early centuries AD. Over centuries, they formed a distinct
Jewish subgroup, adopting local influences while remaining committed to their
faith.
The community began
taking shape on the right bank of the Gudyalchay in the 18th century. Fatali
Khan, the ruler of the Quba Khanate (1736–1789), granted the Mountain Jews land
and protection, encouraging them to settle near Quba city. This was a strategic
decision: the khan valued their skills as artisans, merchants, and soldiers.
The settlement became known as Yevreyskaya Sloboda (Jewish Settlement) and
later Krasnaya Sloboda (Red Settlement), referring to the distinctive red
bricks used in local architecture.
During the 19th
century, Red Village grew into a prosperous community. Historical records show
that by the late 1800s, it had multiple synagogues, schools, markets,
craftsmen’s workshops, and some of the wealthiest merchants of the region. Many
residents worked as goldsmiths, carpet makers, and traders across the Caucasus
and Persia.
The Soviet era
dramatically altered life in the village. Religious institutions were
suppressed, synagogues were closed, and many Jewish residents moved away.
Nonetheless, families continued practicing their traditions discreetly, keeping
the community alive.
After Azerbaijan
regained independence in 1991, a revival began. Synagogues were restored,
diaspora families began investing in their ancestral homes, and Qırmızı Qəsəbə
reclaimed its status as a cultural and religious center for Mountain Jews
worldwide.
