Avars

Who are the Avars?

The Avars are the largest ethnic group in Dagestan, a republic in southern Russia. They call themselves магӀарулал (maⱨarulal), meaning 'mountaineers', reflecting their life in the highlands of the North Caucasus. Their identity is closely tied to their language, Avar, and to a tradition of living in ancient mountain villages. The Avars are part of a wider group of Northeast Caucasian peoples, but maintain a distinct sense of community through shared history, language, and customs. Sub-ethnic groups exist among them, but all identify with the broader Avar heritage.

Where do the Avars live?

The Avars live mainly in the mountainous regions of Dagestan, in the North Caucasus, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Their villages are often perched at high altitudes, around 2,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by rugged terrain and steep valleys. The land is marked by rivers such as the Andiyskoe Koisu and Avarskoye Koisu. Some Avars also live on the plains of Dagestan and in neighboring regions, but the mountains remain central to their identity.

What language do the Avars speak?

Avar is a Northeast Caucasian language, part of the Avar–Andic branch. It is the main language of daily life and cultural expression among the Avars. Most Avars in Dagestan speak it, and it is used in literature and local media. The language remains vital, though Russian is also widely spoken, especially in cities and for official matters.

How do the Avars live?

Traditionally, Avars have made their living through farming and herding in the mountain valleys and slopes. They raise livestock such as sheep and cattle, and grow crops suited to the highland climate. Many Avars have moved to lower, more fertile plains or to towns, where wage work and other modern jobs are common. Their houses in the mountains are built of stone, adapted to the steep terrain and harsh winters.

How is Avars society organised?

Avar society is organized around extended families and local communities. Descent and kinship play an important role, and there are numerous sub-ethnic groups within the Avars. Historically, leadership was provided by local elders and, at times, by khans or imams. Marriage often takes place within the community, and social ties are reinforced by shared customs and gatherings.

What do the Avars believe?

Sunni Islam has been the main religion of the Avars since the 14th century, shaping their rituals, festivals, and daily life. Before Islam, Christianity had some influence, as seen in surviving monuments like the Datuna Church. Religious leaders and traditions remain important, and Islamic practices are widely observed. Traditional music, oral poetry, and distinctive dress are also part of Avar culture.

The history of the Avars

The Avars have a long history in the Caucasus. Early on, Christianity reached their valleys, but by the 14th century, Islam became dominant. They formed the Avar Khanate after the fall of the Christian kingdom of Sarir. The Avar region saw invasions and shifting rule by Mongols, Persians, Ottomans, and Russians. In the 19th century, the Avars, led by figures like Imam Shamil, resisted Russian conquest in the Caucasian War. After defeat, some Avars migrated to Turkey. Under Soviet rule, many moved from the highlands to the plains. Despite pressures, the Avars have remained the largest group in Dagestan.

Avars life today

Today, most Avars live in Dagestan, with smaller communities in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey. They number about 1.3 million. While many still live in mountain villages, others have moved to towns or abroad. The Avar language remains strong, but Russian is widely used. The Avars face challenges from migration, economic change, and the pressures of modern life, but continue to maintain their identity and traditions.

Questions people ask about the Avars

Sources and further reading

• Avars (Caucasus) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Avars themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.