Exploring Azerbaijan In July: Activities And Adventures

Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts, where ancient and modern worlds collide. Baku, the capital, is a great place to start your trip, with its mix of old stone structures and hypermodern buildings. The city is also a hub for architectural experiments, such as the Heydar Aliyev Centre, and the Flame Towers.

Azerbaijan has a varied climate, with nine of the world's eleven climate zones represented in the country. The best time to visit is during spring (March to June) when the weather is warm and the foliage is in bloom, or in autumn (September to October) when the temperatures are more moderate.

- Explore Baku's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the 12th-century Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

- Visit the Heydar Aliyev Centre, a modern architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid.

- Stroll along the Baku Promenade and check out Mini Venice, a small network of waterways built to resemble the Italian city.

- Hike up to Highland Park for a panoramic view of the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

- Discover the ancient mosques and churches, such as the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, which features beautiful Islamic patterns and the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad.

- Experience the nightlife in Baku, with its bright lights and glass and steel towers.

- Visit Qubustan, home to a large number of mud volcanoes, where you can witness the mud spewing out alongside sulphuric gases.

- Discover the palaces in Sheki, such as the Khan's Palace and the House of the Sheki Khans, which date back to the 18th century and feature colourful glass windows and furnished halls.

- Explore the ancient remains of the Caucasian Albanians in Kish and visit the restored Kish Albanian church.

- Spend a day in the mountainous village of Khinalaug, hiking through the forests and taking in the beautiful landscapes.

- Go on a day trip to Gobustan to see the prehistoric rock engravings and mud volcanoes.

- Learn about the history of Zoroastrianism at the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a 17th-century place of worship for Hindus, Sikhs and Zoroastrians.

- Spend an evening on Nizami Street, a lively pedestrian shopping street with plenty of restaurants and entertainment.

- Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, which showcases the country's weaving traditions and displays carpets from different periods.

- Enjoy the local cuisine, such as dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and plov (a traditional rice, meat and vegetable dish).

Explore Baku's Old Town

Baku's Old Town, also known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit when in Azerbaijan in July. Here are some things you can do when exploring Baku's Old Town:

• Walk through the cobblestone streets and touch the ancient walls of the 12th-century fortifications.
• Zigzag through the narrow corridors and admire the intricate art on the doors.
• Visit the Maiden Tower, Azerbaijan's most recognised landmark, and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
• Check out the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a 15th-century palace complex with a beautiful sandstone structure.
• Visit the Muhammad Mosque, built in the 11th century.
• Explore the Old City Walls, which stand as a testament to the diverse cultural influences in Baku, including Sasanian, Arabic, Zoroastrian, Persian, Ottoman, Russian, and Shirvani.
• Enjoy the beautiful view of the boulevard and capture picturesque moments of merchants playing chess or backgammon.
• Indulge in some shopping and purchase souvenirs from the many vendors.
• Sip on some traditional Azerbaijani tea at one of the tea shops.
• Savour local delicacies at the restaurants in the Old Town.

Visit the Bibi-Heybat Mosque

The Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a historic mosque in Baku, Azerbaijan. It is a spiritual centre for the Muslims of the region and a major monument of Islamic architecture in the country.

The mosque was originally built in the 13th century by Shirvanshah Farrukhzad II Ibn Ahsitan II but was completely destroyed by the Bolsheviks in 1936. The existing structure, built in the 1990s, is a recreation of the original. It was designed by Azerbaijani architect Sanan Sultanov.

The mosque includes the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum, a descendant of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad. It is sometimes known as "the mosque of Fatima", as named by Alexandre Dumas when he visited in the 1850s. Dumas wrote of the mosque in his book 'The World':

> "The mosque – a place of worship for infertile women, they come here on foot, worship, and within a year gain the ability to give birth."

The mosque is a classic example of the Shirvan architectural school. It has three domes, which have kept the traditional corrugated galvanised iron shape of the old mosque, and two minarets. The domes are decorated with green and turquoise mirrors, which are bordered with gilded inscriptions from the Qur'an. The men's praying room is located on the south side of the complex, while the women's room is on the north side. Between them is the mausoleum.

The mosque is open 6 am until 8 pm. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Admire the Heydar Aliyev Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a must-see for anyone visiting the country in July or any other time of the year. This stunning building complex is a true masterpiece of modern architecture and has become a signature landmark of Baku. Designed by the renowned Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, the centre is named after Heydar Aliyev, the former secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan and subsequent president of the Azerbaijan Republic. The building is characterised by its flowing, curved style, eschewing sharp angles, with a design that represents a fluid form emerging from the natural topography of the landscape.

The Heydar Aliyev Centre covers a total area of 57,500 square metres, extending across eight floor levels. It houses a range of facilities, including a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference centre, workshops, and a museum. The centre aims to play an integral role in the intellectual life of Baku and is located close to the city centre, contributing significantly to the redevelopment of the area.

The design of the centre establishes a continuous, fluid relationship between its surrounding plaza and the building's interior. The plaza, as a public space, rises to envelop an equally public interior, creating a sequence of event spaces dedicated to the celebration of contemporary and traditional Azeri culture. The building's design blurs the conventional differentiation between architectural object and urban landscape, building envelope and urban plaza, figure and ground, interior and exterior.

The architectural development of the building's skin was a critical element of the project, aiming to achieve a surface so continuous that it appears homogenous. Advanced computing played a crucial role in controlling and communicating the complexities among the numerous project participants.

The centre consists of two main systems: a concrete structure combined with a space frame system. The space frame system enabled the construction of a free-form structure, saving significant time and allowing for a flexible relationship between the rigid grid and the free-formed exterior cladding seams.

The overall shape of the building resembles a wave-like ascension from the ground towards the sky, followed by a gradual descent. This design not only pays tribute to postmodern architecture but also symbolises an eternal cycle, bridging the past with the present. The harmonious link between the exterior and interior aims to remove any boundaries in the building's perception, welcoming people from all backgrounds.

The Heydar Aliyev Centre is much more than just a stunning piece of architecture. It embodies the development of modern-day Azerbaijan and its attachment to both its past and future. The centre's logo symbolises the country's forward-looking aspirations, progress, and dynamism. It is a place that brings people together, united by shared ideas, and it has become a symbol of modern Azerbaijan and the city of Baku.

Shop at Yashil Bazaar

If you're looking for a true taste of Azerbaijan, Yashil Bazaar, Baku's largest food market, is the place to go. Yashil Bazaar, which translates to Green Bazaar, is a little further out from the city centre, but it's well worth the trip.

Here, you'll find an array of Azerbaijani flavours and aromas. Wander through the rows of stalls and you'll discover a huge variety of organic and exotic fruit and vegetables, herbs and spices, nuts and dried fruits, juices, compotes and jams, as well as local specialities like caviar and saffron.

Almost all the produce is sourced from the surrounding settlements and other regions of the country, so you can be sure of its freshness and authenticity. You'll also find a range of imported goods, adding to the diversity of the market.

The air is filled with the scents of the East, creating an exotic, oriental atmosphere. Vendors will happily let you sample their goods, and haggling over prices is common practice.

At Yashil Bazaar, you can find an extensive selection of fruits, including figs, peaches, lemons, limes, oranges, cherries, strawberries, melons, and pomegranates. The pomegranates are especially noteworthy, with around 60 different varieties grown in Azerbaijan.

Along the inner perimeter of the market, you'll find an assortment of spices, nuts, dried fruits, pickles, jams, and the ever-popular Azerbaijani tea. You'll be spoilt for choice with the wide range of tea on offer.

Various dairy products are also available, with a particular emphasis on different types of cheese made from goat, sheep, and cow milk. You'll find these cheeses in various designs, quantities, and ages to suit all tastes.

Meat products are mostly derived from mutton, and you'll also discover a range of fresh and smoked fish and caviar. Beluga and sturgeon caviar are highly prized and sought-after items.

For those with a sweet tooth, Yashil Bazaar offers a delightful selection of oriental sweets, including baklava, halva from Sheki, and Georgian churchkhela.

In addition to being a foodie's paradise, Yashil Bazaar also serves as a cultural platform. It's a great place to chat with the local sellers and learn about Azerbaijani culture and cuisine.

So, if you're in Baku during July, a visit to Yashil Bazaar is a must. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, indulge in the flavours of Azerbaijan, and don't forget to haggle for a good deal!

Stroll along Baku Promenade

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a city of contrasts, with its modern architecture and old town heritage. One of the best ways to experience this fascinating city is by taking a stroll along the Baku Promenade, officially known as the Baku Seaside Park. This national park has been a popular attraction since 1909, offering a unique blend of history and leisure. Here are some tips to make the most of your stroll along the Baku Promenade:

• Location and Accessibility: The Baku Promenade is conveniently located along the seafront of Baku, in the Sabayil district. It is easily accessible by public transport, with the nearest metro station being the Sahil Station.
• Scenic Views: The promenade offers stunning views of the Caspian Sea and the Baku Bay. You can admire the beauty of the sea and the bay while enjoying a leisurely walk.
• Historical Landmarks: Along the promenade, you'll find several historical landmarks, including the Palace of The Shirvanshahs, the Maiden Tower, and the Upland Park. These landmarks provide a glimpse into Baku's rich history and cultural heritage.
• Dining Options: There are plenty of dining options along the promenade, ranging from local cuisine to international fare. You can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants or cafes, such as the Latitude & Longitude Bar Lounge or the Art Club Restaurant.
• Entertainment and Leisure: The promenade is a hub for entertainment and leisure activities. You can visit the Baku Olympic Stadium or the Azerbaijan Opera and Ballet Theatre for a cultural experience. Additionally, the Philharmonic Fountain Park offers a relaxing atmosphere with its beautiful fountains and greenery.
• Nearby Attractions: The Baku Promenade is within walking distance of several other attractions. You can explore the Baku Old City, wander through the Fortress Walls of Icheri Sheher, or visit museums such as the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center.
• Accommodation: If you're looking for a place to stay near the promenade, the Promenade Hotel Baku is a popular choice. It offers 5-star accommodations with a shared lounge, a terrace, and a bar. The hotel also provides easy access to nearby attractions.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Baku is during spring (March to June) when the weather is pleasant and the city is in full bloom. However, if you're looking for warmer temperatures, the summer months (July to September) can also be a good option.

Frequently asked questions