Baku — The Heart of Azerbaijan

General Information

Baku is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea, on the Absheron Peninsula. It is the largest city in the Caucasus and an important cultural, economic, and tourist center of the region. The city combines ancient historical monuments with modern architecture, Eastern charm with a European lifestyle.

Baku consists of three main parts: the historic center — Icherisheher (Old City), the Soviet-era districts, and the modern neighborhoods with skyscrapers, boulevards, and business quarters.

History

The first settlements in the area of Baku appeared in antiquity. From ancient times, the city was known for its oil and salt springs.

• In the Middle Ages, Baku became an important port along the Silk Road.

• In the 12th century, the Maiden Tower was built — today it is the symbol of the city.

• In the 18th century, Baku was the capital of the Baku Khanate.

• In the 19th–20th centuries, during the “oil boom,” Baku became one of the world’s leading oil extraction centers.

• In the Soviet period, it grew into the largest industrial city of the Caucasus.

Today, Baku is a dynamically developing metropolis, combining its glorious past with an innovative future.

Architecture and Landmarks

• Icherisheher (Old City) — a medieval fortress with caravanserais, mosques, narrow streets, the Maiden Tower, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

• Seaside Boulevard (Baku Boulevard) — stretching for over 25 km along the Caspian Sea, with parks, fountains, museums, and entertainment areas.

• Flame Towers — three skyscrapers shaped like flames, the iconic symbol of modern Baku.

• Heydar Aliyev Center — designed by Zaha Hadid, one of the brightest examples of contemporary architecture.

• Azerbaijan Carpet Museum — shaped like a rolled carpet, showcasing unique Azerbaijani carpets.

• Bibi-Heybat Mosque — a restored 13th-century spiritual center.

• Baku TV Tower — the tallest structure in the city (310 m) with an observation deck.

Nature and Climate

Baku has a semi-desert climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. The city is often windy, which explains its name derived from Persian “Bad-kube” — “City of Winds.”

Nearby lies Gobustan National Park, with its ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and landscapes included in the UNESCO list.

Cuisine

Baku is famous for its rich Azerbaijani cuisine. Dishes to try:

• Pilaf with saffron and dried fruits.

• Dolma (vine leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice).

• Kebab and shashlik made from lamb and chicken.

• Qutab (thin stuffed flatbreads with greens, cheese, or meat).

• Traditional sweets — baklava and shekerbura.

• Tea with jam and pastries — an integral part of Baku’s hospitality.

Culture and Modern Life

Baku is considered the cultural capital of the Caucasus. It has theaters, a philharmonic hall, and an opera house. The city regularly hosts international events such as Formula 1, Eurovision 2012, and numerous cultural and sports festivals.

The nightlife is centered in the Old City, on the boulevard, and in modern districts.

Modern Baku

Today, Baku is a city of contrasts: medieval Icherisheher coexists with futuristic skyscrapers, traditional bazaars and teahouses blend with European-style cafés and restaurants.

The city is actively developing as a hub for tourism, business, and international events.

Conclusion: Baku is a place where the past meets the future, where ancient legends live against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers. A city that enchants every visitor with its spirit, history, and hospitality.