About Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan – the Land of Fires, inherits a unique combination of the Eastern and European cultures. It is the home to the most stunning natural landscapes of the Caucasus, from the “burning mountain” of Yanar Dag, to the mud volcanoes and petroglyphs of Gobustan, to the beaches of the Absheron Peninsula. It is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and on the historical transport route of Silk Way, whose people, culture and food are blended with East meeting West. In the capital city of Baku, the cobbled streets and 12th-century fortresses and minarets of the Old City sit side by side with the fiercely modern architecture of the Flame Towers and Zaha Hadid`s Heydar Aliyev Center, reflecting the city`s enormous growth since oil-drilling began in the 19th century. Azerbaijan is the home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, plus a number of other important places that have been considered for inclusion in the World Heritage Sites list. Right in the center of Baku is Old City, the walled city that once housed the entire population of Baku. Baku is famous for its cultural life, but that’s not to say that the rest of the country doesn’t have its own charms.
A visit to the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and excursions to carpet workshops (Quba has a thriving workshop) will make anyone an expert of carpets and the various regional types found around Azerbaijan. Art lovers will appreciate the Museum of Modern Art or the National Museum of Art, and theater lovers will find plenty to do in Baku. Some famous historical sites also have a cultural aspect, such as the isolated and unique culture of Khinalug and the excellent craftsmanship of Sheki. UNESCO has recognized copper making in Lahic, silk scarves, carpet weaving, mugham and tar as Intangible Cultural Heritage, but this is only a start when it comes to exploring Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage. From the shores of the Caspian Sea (which actually lie below sea level) to the heights of the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan offers a variety of natural destinations.
Summer is a great time to relax at the beach, with a variety of seashore resorts on the Caspian Sea, while winter is the perfect season for a stay at a ski resort in the mountains. There are also national parks that are great for hikes and even longer trips, while picnicking has long been a treasured tradition. And for something beyond tourist sites, shopping through Baku’s pedestrian streets or a meal at one of the fine restaurants throughout the city, serving both traditional Azerbaijani food and international classics.
Travelling to Azerbaijan is an excellent opportunity to see marvellous nature, touch the history of mankind, and get acquainted with the ancient culture and modern achievements of this country. For more information about popular tourist areas and hotels, as well as the latest news about Azerbaijan, you will always be able to find here:
Videos about Azerbaijan:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LZ6x6GFvj0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJWpWBcahRU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buHA0nfsYmA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5T85w0mZBBE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzZR_z7C-yA
