Lexi Webster
Azerbaijan is a beautiful country straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia in the Caucuses region. It is known as the Land of Fire and has a lot to offer visitors, from flaming mountains and mud volcanoes to ancient mosques and modern architecture. The country is home to the Caspian Sea, with its quaint subtropical seaside resorts, and impressive modern buildings in the capital city of Baku. Azerbaijan's rich history and diverse landscapes, including lowlands, foothills, and mountain regions, make it a captivating destination for travellers seeking both natural and cultural experiences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Azerbaijan |
| Region | Caucuses |
| Location | Eastern Europe and Western Asia |
| Bordering countries | Russia, Iran, Armenia, Georgia, Turkey |
| Capital | Baku |
| Bordering sea | Caspian Sea |
| Landscape | Mountainous, lowland, foothills, plains, subtropical seaside |
| Wildlife | Gazelles, birds, jackals, badgers, Caspian seals, flamingos, jungle cats, turtles, hedgehogs, hyenas, Caucasian deer, roe deer, wild boar, brown bear, lynx, European bison, chamois, leopard |
| Climate | Humid subtropical, dry continental, dry subtropical |
| Attractions | Flame Towers, Icheri Sheher, Baku Boulevard, Gobustan National Park, Absheron National Park, Shirvan National Park, Agh Gol National Park, Ateshgah, Teze Bazaar, Gobustan, Naftalan Oil Resort, Baku Crystal Hall, Yanardag, Yanar Bulag |
The Caspian Sea
Azerbaijan, located on the Caspian Sea, offers visitors a mix of seaside fun, stunning cities, unspoiled nature, and remarkable historical attractions. The capital city of Baku sits on the Caspian Sea and is a mix of the old walled city of Icheri Seher and modern skyscrapers. The Baku Boulevard, a long promenade near the Caspian Sea, is one of the most beautiful attractions in the city.
Azerbaijan's coastline along the Caspian Sea stretches for more than 500 km, and the country has extensive offshore oil and gas fields in this area. The sea's name is derived from the ancient Kaspi peoples, who once lived in Transcaucasia to the west.
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Baku's Old City
Within its walls, you'll discover a labyrinth of narrow alleys, home to a few thousand residents, as well as museums, monuments, art galleries, restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes. Baku's Old City is like a living, open-air museum!
The Maiden Tower
The iconic Maiden Tower is steeped in mystery and legend. Its original purpose and construction date are still unknown, although it is widely accepted to date back to at least the 12th century, with some researchers arguing for a 7th-century origin. This majestic tower once formed part of Azerbaijan's ancient walls.
The Shirvanshahs' Palace
The 15th-century Shirvanshahs' Palace is a stunning architectural complex and the former residence of the ruling Shirvanshah dynasty during the medieval period. The complex includes a mosque, mausoleum, hamam (bathhouse), divankhana, gates, and a reservoir, offering a glimpse into the past grandeur of this dynasty.
The Museum of Miniature Books
This unique museum houses the world's smallest book, measuring a minuscule 2x2mm!
The Marionette Theatre
This charming theatre hosts performances of two Uzeyir Hajibeyli masterpieces: "Leyli and Majnun" and "The Cloth Peddler."
Historic Mosques, Caravanserais, and Hamams
Explore the numerous historic mosques, such as the Mohammed Mosque, as well as the caravanserais and hamams that dot the Old City, providing a glimpse into the past.
Art Galleries, Restaurants, and Cafes
The Old City also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with small, independent art galleries, restaurants serving local cuisine, and quaint cafes where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere.
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The Flame Towers
Azerbaijan, known as the "Land of Fire", is a country that straddles both Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Baku, its capital city, is situated on the Caspian Sea and boasts a curious mix of the old walled city of Icheri Seher and modern skyscrapers. The Flame Towers are a group of three flame-shaped skyscrapers that form the focal point of the capital. They are completely covered with LED screens that display the movement of fire, visible from the farthest points of the city. The tallest tower is 182 metres (597 feet) or 39 storeys high and accommodates 130 luxury apartments. The other two towers consist of a Fairmont hotel with 250 rooms and 61 serviced apartments, and an office block.
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Icheri Sheher
Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts, straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with a unique mix of east-meets-west culture. Baku, the capital, is a prime example of this, with its blend of the old walled city of Icheri Sheher and modern skyscrapers.
One of the most prominent landmarks in Icheri Sheher is the Maiden Tower, a 12th-century structure that was once part of the ancient walled city of Baku. The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, is another remarkable monument within the Old City. The Multani Caravanserai and the Hajji Gayyib bathhouse are also notable 15th-century structures.
In addition to its architectural wonders, Icheri Sheher is a great place to find handicrafts and traditional Azerbaijani items. You can browse tiny shops specialising in ceramics, carpets, and textiles, as well as traditional national clothing. It is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, taking in the historic centre of Baku and offering plenty of opportunities to pick up souvenirs.
The Old City is divided into several quarters, which also served as social divisions, often named after their mosques. For example, there is the Juma Mosque quarter, the Shal Mosque quarter, and the Mahammadyar Mosque quarter. Other notable quarters include the Seyyids, a quarter for clergymen, and the Aghshalvarlilar, a quarter for city nobles.
With its mix of medieval charm, rich history, and cultural offerings, Icheri Sheher is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan.
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Absheron National Park
Azerbaijan is a country that straddles both Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with a landscape of mountains and semi-arid plains, historic towns, wildlife, fire, and coastline. It is known as the "Land of Fire" due to the burning of natural oil and gases underground.
One of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan is the Absheron National Park, a unique natural sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park is situated on the southeastern tip of the Absheron Peninsula, just over 60km (37mi) east of Baku, and spans 783 hectares (7.83 km2) of protected land.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including:
- Birds: More than 50 species of birds, including gulls, terns, ducks, waders, and raptors. The short-eared owl is a highlight during autumn.
- Mammals: Foxes, jackals, badgers, and gazelles.
- Reptiles: Several species of snakes, including the non-poisonous dice snake.
- Fish: Various species of fish, including the endangered Caspian seal.
The park is a popular destination for birdwatching, with migratory birds abundant from mid-April to mid-May, and calm and windless days in November ideal for birdwatching. From mid-January to February, visitors may also spot wintering species such as flamingos.
Reaching the park can be challenging due to a lack of road signs and limited public transportation. It is advisable to rent a vehicle or join an organized tour, and guides can provide valuable navigation and translation services.
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Frequently asked questions
Azerbaijan is known for its natural beauty, including its mountains, lakes, and forests. The country also has a diverse range of wildlife, from Caucasian deer and leopards to flamingos and pelicans.
There are many must-visit places in Azerbaijan, including the capital city of Baku, the ancient city of Icheri Seher, the Flame Towers, the Gobustan National Park, and the Caspian Sea.
Baku is a modern city with a rich history. Visitors can explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Azerbaijan has a varied landscape, including lowlands, mountains, and foothills. More than two-fifths of its territory is made up of lowlands, while about half lies at an altitude of 1,300 to 4,900 feet. The highest peaks are in the Greater Caucasus range, which forms part of the country's northern boundary.
There are many beautiful places to visit outside of Baku, including the Absheron National Park, the Gobustan National Park, the city of Astara, the Quba region, and the Goyazan Mountain.
