Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku — History, Architecture, and Visiting Hours

History and Establishment

The Heydar Aliyev Center is one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in modern Baku and the Republic of Azerbaijan. It was built to honor the legacy of Heydar Aliyev, the third President of Azerbaijan, and officially opened its doors in 2012. The center serves as a hub for cultural preservation, political history, international exhibitions, and art-focused events.

The building was designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, winner of the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize. Its flowing, futuristic form — without a single sharp angle — reflects Azerbaijan’s progressive vision and openness to global innovation.

Architecture and Exhibitions

With a total area of over 100,000 square meters, the Heydar Aliyev Center includes:

• Heydar Aliyev Museum, featuring personal belongings, archival photos, documents, and multimedia exhibits related to the life and political career of the former president.

• Exhibition Halls that host rotating art, design, and science displays from local and international contributors.

• Concert Hall with a seating capacity of 1,000, equipped with world-class acoustics for classical concerts, theatrical performances, and conferences.

• Museum of Miniature Cars, presenting a rare collection of scaled models of vintage and modern automobiles.

The center also includes a café, boutique, lounge areas, and landscaped gardens surrounding the structure.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Ticket office closes one hour before closing time

• Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance or online