Exploring Azerbaijan's Quba: Nature, Culture, And Adventure

Quba, Azerbaijan is a charming city nestled at the foot of the Caucasus mountains, boasting breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural heritage. With its well-preserved traditions and virgin nature, Quba offers a unique experience to travellers seeking adventure and insight into local culture. Here is a brief overview of some of the best attractions and activities that this captivating city has to offer.

Visit the Juma Mosque

One of the main mosques in Quba, the Juma Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting Azerbaijan. Its unique structure sets it apart from other mosques in the country and makes it a standout example of architecture in the region.

The Juma Mosque, also known as the Friday Mosque, was constructed in the 19th century. Its cylindrical structure is fashioned from red brick and is typical only of mosques in Quba. The mosque is octagonal in shape, with a large dome spanning a diameter of 16 meters covering the hall inside. Despite its modest exterior, the interior of the mosque is surprisingly spacious. Huge windows open up in all eight directions, filling the space with natural light. A beautiful chandelier hangs from the circular roof, adding to the mosque's grandeur.

The Juma Mosque is located right by the city's central park, making it easily accessible for visitors. It is one of the oldest religious centres in north-eastern Azerbaijan, and its rich history adds to the allure of this architectural gem.

When visiting the Juma Mosque, it is important to dress modestly, with clothing that covers your arms and legs. Women and girls will also need to cover their heads.

The Juma Mosque is a testament to the cultural diversity and historical significance of Quba, making it a must-visit destination when exploring all that Azerbaijan has to offer.

Explore the Red Village

Quba's Red Village, officially named Qırmızı Qəsəbə, is the world's last surviving shtetl—a Jewish village in Eastern Europe that is entirely or largely Jewish. It is the only entirely Jewish settlement outside of Israel and the United States. Located on the banks of the Kudyal River, the village is home to around 4,000 Jews, who mostly spend their summers there and work elsewhere for higher wages during the rest of the year.

The Red Village was established in 1742 after the Khan of Quba, Huseynali Khan, gave the Jews permission to set up a community free from persecution across the river from the city of Quba. The village's name is a reference to the red tile roofs on the houses. The settlement grew due to its convenient location on a main trading road, the protection offered by the Quba khans, and the fertile land that was ideal for farming.

The Mountain Jews of the Red Village have their own version of Judaism, combining the Old Testament with traditional practices and mysticism. They speak three languages: Judeo-Tat or Juhuri, Azerbaijani, and Russian. The village has two active synagogues: the Six Dome Synagogue, used during the summer and for special occasions, and the Hilaki Synagogue, which was recently renovated.

The rich history and unique culture of the Red Village attract visitors from around the world. The village has produced several notable figures, including politicians, businessmen, scientists, and artists. Despite its fame and wealthy residents, the future of the Red Village is uncertain, as many young people leave for bigger cities.

When visiting the Red Village, there are several points of interest. The old bridge, built over a century ago, offers a beautiful view of the river and the village. The Jewish cemetery, located on a hill, provides panoramic views of the village and the river. The village also has a museum dedicated to its Jewish history, although it is closed on the Sabbath.

Admire the Tengya Alty Gorge

Tengya Alty Gorge is a must-see when visiting Quba, Azerbaijan. This narrow gorge is located in the mountains and is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Here are some reasons why you should admire the Tengya Alty Gorge:

Natural Beauty: The Tengya Alty Gorge is situated in a breathtaking location, surrounded by majestic mountains covered in lush green forests. The gorge is part of the Tenge canyon, the largest in the Caucasian region. The river that flows through the gorge adds to the natural splendour, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Historical Significance: Tengya Alty Gorge holds a significant place in the history of Azerbaijan. Its narrow passage served as a strategic point to prevent enemies from entering the region, making it an important site for national freedom fighters. The gorge's role in the country's history makes it a site of great interest for those wanting to learn more about Azerbaijan's past.

Outdoor Activities: The gorge offers a great opportunity to get out and explore the countryside. Off-road driving and hiking are popular activities in the area. The challenging road conditions make it an adventurous journey, but the stunning views and fresh air are well worth the effort.

Local Culture and Hospitality: In the vicinity of the gorge, you can find restaurants and guest houses, although their condition may vary. These establishments offer a chance to interact with the local people, experience their hospitality, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.

Mayil Cave: A visit to the nearby Mayil Cave adds another layer of intrigue to your trip. This cave served as a shelter for Azerbaijani rebellions during the 19th century, providing a glimpse into the region's turbulent past.

Overall, a trip to Tengya Alty Gorge will leave you with unforgettable memories of natural beauty, historical insights, and cultural interactions. It is a place where you can connect with nature, learn about the past, and create your own adventures.

Hike to the Afrudja Waterfall

Quba is a charming city at the foot of the Caucasus mountains in Azerbaijan. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, with a rich history and cultural diversity. The city boasts several mosques, museums, waterfalls, and lakes.

One of the most popular attractions in Quba is the Afrudja Waterfall, the biggest waterfall in Azerbaijan. Getting to the waterfall involves a scenic drive through a canyon with 600-meter walls and a 90-meter waterfall at the end. The journey to the waterfall is just as captivating as the destination itself.

• Getting to Quba: Quba is easily accessible from Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. You can reach Quba by public transport buses or cabs. The distance between Baku and Quba is approximately 165-km-168 km, and the journey takes around 3 hours.
• Transport to the Waterfall: Once you arrive in Quba, you can hire a local taxi or a zeep taxi with high surface clearance to reach the foot of the hill near the waterfall. The journey will take around 15 minutes, and the taxi driver will be familiar with the route.
• The Hike: The hike to the Afrudja Waterfall can be challenging, especially if it has rained recently. The path can be muddy, slippery, and wet. It is advisable to wear good trekking shoes with a strong grip. The hike will take approximately 3 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and the conditions.
• Safety Precautions: It is important to follow some safety precautions when visiting the Afrudja Waterfall. Do not go down to the water body created by the waterfall, as it can be life-threatening due to falling rocks. Enjoy the view from a safe distance.
• Best Time to Visit: The summer months are the best time to visit Quba and the Afrudja Waterfall, as the winter months can be too cold, and some nearby areas may be closed.

The hike to the Afrudja Waterfall offers a glimpse into the rural life of Azerbaijan and provides a rewarding experience for those seeking outdoor adventures in the country.

Stroll through Nizami Park

Nizami Park is a peaceful park in Quba, Azerbaijan, with sculptures of poets and peasants, and an old staircase that leads down to the river bridge. The park is lined with chestnut and plane trees, providing shade to those who stroll through it. The park is also home to an ornamental 'castle' tower, a museum, and a metal-spired turbe (tomb-tower).

The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, with elegant sculptures of sportswomen lining the staircase down to the Qırmızı Qəsəbə pedestrian bridge. The bridge itself is a reminder of the Soviet past, and the entire area offers a unique insight into the history and cultural diversity of Quba.

Nizami Park is located in the Khatai district of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. It is one of the oldest parks in the city, dating back to the end of the 19th century when it was created as a residential settlement for employees of the Nobel brothers' company. The park covers an area of 13.6 hectares and is known for its positive impact on the gardening architecture of Absheron.

The park is a great place to spend an evening, with the sunset creating a beautiful atmosphere. It is also conveniently located near restaurants and an old museum, making it a perfect spot to include on a stroll through Quba.

Frequently asked questions