“Ordubad is the pearl of Azerbaijan!” – these words were spoken by National Leader Heydar Aliyev during his visit to the district in 1980. Ordubad is indeed a land distinguished by its national-spiritual values, ancient customs and traditions, culture, and intellectuals.
In this presentation of **Modern.az** website's **“Masters of Life”** section, we discuss the longest-living resident of **Ordubad** district.
Ordubad district, considered one of Azerbaijan's oldest settlements, was established on August 8, 1930. Although it was merged with Julfa district on January 4, 1963, it regained independent district status on January 6, 1965. The name “Ordubad” is first encountered in historical sources in the 5th century.
The district's area is 978.99 square kilometers, and its population, according to data from June 2025, is 50,863 people. It borders the Islamic Republic of Iran to the south, Armenia to the north and east, and Julfa district to the west. The district center, Ordubad city, is located 850 meters above sea level. Mount Gapijig (3904 m), considered the highest point of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, is also located in the Ordubad territory. Ordubad city, rich in historical and architectural heritage, was declared a reserve city in 1977. The distance from Nakhchivan, the capital of the Autonomous Republic, to the district center is 70 kilometers.
Born on July 1, 1925, in Üstüpü village of this ancient land, **Zahra Huseynali** daughter **Agayeva** is known as Ordubad's oldest resident.
She has raised a large generation during her 100-year life. Currently, Grandma Zahra has 11 children, 40 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.
Grandma Zahra's husband, Jafar Agha son Agayev, passed away in 2013. Currently, Grandma Zahra lives with her son Sadreddin Agayev in Üstüpü village, where she was born and raised.
In an interview with our website, Sadreddin Agayev spoke about the secret of his mother's longevity.
“My mother only studied up to the 3rd-4th grade. She dedicated her entire life to her family and the upbringing of her children. We have always taken good care of her, never questioned her word. Clean nutrition, fresh air, and family care are among the main reasons for her healthy and long life. She currently lives with me,” he stated.
We also wish Grandma Zahra a long life and good health!
