DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2706-6185/63/13-20
Cartography as a Scientific Tool in the Study of the Historical-Linguistic Identification and Genesis of Geographical Names
Gulbeniz Mehdiyeva 
Abstract. The system of historical geographical names, that is, toponymic layers, which arose as a result of the interaction of human society with nature, reflects the past political situation of each territory, its position on maps, the ethnos and culture that lived there. Toponyms are valued as one of the most valuable sources of information that have survived from ancient times to the present day and allow us to study our history, ethnicity and spiritual heritage. The main purpose of the study is to analyze the basic concepts of cartography and toponymy, to reveal the functional essence of toponymic maps and to substantiate their scientific and practical significance as an important cartographic product. The study of the basic concepts in the field of cartography and toponymy, as well as the essence of the toponymic map, is of great importance for regional geographical research. Geographical space is not only the natural environment, but also the environment in which the ethnos historically settled, lived, established an economy and formed its national and spiritual values. The article discusses the interdisciplinary links between toponymy and cartography, as well as the significance of maps in the etymological and historical study of geographical names. The location and original designation of the toponym Zangazur on historical maps are presented. In this regard, the problems of changing, identifying, and representing geographical names on maps are examined, and their role in preserving historical memory, cultural heritage, and national identity is addressed. The article demonstrates that toponymic maps provide an important cartographic basis for the restoration and preservation of toponyms in historical-geographical and linguistic studies.
Keywords: cartography, toponymy, toponym, historical-linguistic identification, genesis, toponymic map, geographical names, Zangazur, historical memory, cultural heritage