Derbent in the history of Zoroastrianism in the Caucasus

Derbent emerged as a pivotal multi-ethnic city and fortress in the 6th century AD, playing a crucial role in the geopolitical struggles between Rome and Sasanian Iran. This study reveals that Derbent's rulers, who controlled the strategic Derbent Passage, significantly influenced the region's religious and political landscape. While the local population was predominantly Christian, aligned with Byzantine influences, Persian nobility, garrison, and administration adhered to Zoroastrianism. The research, based on interdisciplinary methods and analysis of ancient texts, epigraphy, and archaeological data from Derbent (1970–1995), highlights how anti-Iranian uprisings in the Caucasus were closely tied to Derbent's political orientation, demonstrating its central role in the spread and resistance against Zoroastrianism.

Kudryavtsev, A. А. (2023). Derbent in the history of Zoroastrianism in the Caucasus. Гуманитарные И Юридические Исследования, 10(2), 237–243. https://doi.org/10.37493/2409-1030.2023.2.7