Baku: The Capital of Azerbaijan Where Past Meets Future

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is the home to various sightseeing destinations, most of which speak of the city's heritage and their rise to modernization. Baku is distinct from other nearby cities since it is here where the eastern cultures co-exist with the western cultures. To give you an idea of the what to visit in Baku, we have listed down ten of the best places for sightseeing when in the city.

1. Walled City of Baku

The Walled City of Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Baku. Known as Icheri Seher by the locals, the sightseeing destination is famous for its architectural attractions which could be found adjacent to the wall. Its regal walls and historic buildings make the Walled City an excellent sightseeing destination. Moreover, tourists could also discover beautiful mosques which are reminiscent of the Eastern heritage of Baku. Additionally, sightseeing tourists could also avail of locally-made textiles and handicrafts on shops found around the place.

2. Fountain Square

Located in downtown Baku, the Fountain Square is an ideal attraction for sightseeing tourists who want to get to know more about the local scene in Baku. The square is known by the presence of several fountains which were constructed during the Soviet rule in Azerbaijan. Moreover, the square is rich in trees and facades, making it an ideal place for sightseeing and strolling. There are also a lot of restaurants and boutiques that are found throughout the attractions. During weekends, the square is a favorite place to relax and unwind.

3. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum exhibits several carpets and rug items created by the locals of Baku and Azerbaijan from various periods. Established in 1967, the museum features carpets which are made from various weaving methods. Moreover, the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum also exhibits other collections which were locally produced in Baku through time. These include ceramics from the 14th century, pieces of jewelry from the Bronze Age, and applied art of the Modern Age. The museum is open for sightseeing from Tuesday to Sunday.

4. Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower is another attraction in Baku which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic tower is the home of a museum which exhibits an overview of the rich history of Baku and the rest of Azerbaijan. Moreover, the tapering tower is connected to the medieval period in Baku, hence the legends and mysteries that surround it. Sightseeing tourists could go the rooftop of the Maiden Tower to witness a picturesque view of the Old City and the Caspian Sea.

5. Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Together with the Walled City and the Maiden Tower, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs forms an ensemble of historical attractions declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The pace served as the residence of the ruling dynasties of Baku in the 15th century. The sandstone palace is also famous for its stunning architecture making it an ideal sightseeing destination for those who are keen on medieval architecture. Apart from the palace itself, it also houses a mausoleum, a museum, and a few mosques.

6. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center is one of the most iconic attractions in Baku for its stunning design and distinct architecture. Designed by Zaha Hadid, the structure's exterior follows a fluid style which is devoid of any sharp angles to mimic the abstract waves that connect various cultural spaces. The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center is home to a museum, a gallery hall, and a conference hall where various events such as art exhibitions and opera are held. The center was named after former president Heydar Aliyev.

7. Martyrs' Lane

Martyrs' Lane is a memorial park located in Baku. It is built to commemorate those who have given their lives during the two significant events in the history of Azerbaijan - Black January and Nagorno-Karabakh War. The memorial park has around 15,000 people buried in the place. A lot of people - most of whom are locals of Baku - come and visit Martyrs' Lane to pay respect to those who have offered their lives for the sake of the country's independence. The most prominent structure on this sightseeing destination is called the Eternal Flame which consists of a hexagonal block made up of red granite.

8. Yarat Contemporary Art Center

Yarat Contemporary Art Center is dedicated to the development of the arts scene in Baku and the rest of Azerbaijan by providing a place where locals can showcase their talents. Since its establishment in 2011, the center has been organizing several art festivals and exhibitions to help the locals understand contemporary art. Additionally, seminars, master classes, and other educational activities are initiated to encourage people to immerse themselves in the arts. Yarat Contemporary Art Center is situated in an old naval building overlooking the Caspian Sea.

9. Flame Towers

The Flame Towers is the tallest skyscraper in Baku with a height of 620 feet. It comprises of three buildings which resemble the shape of a flame. Each building consists of apartments, hotels, and office establishments. Moreover, the towers possess large LED screens which are lit to provide spectators with a fascinating view, especially at night. The Flame Towers has received various recognition since its completion in 2012, including the 2004 Pittsker Prize. When sightseeing in Baku, it would be inevitable not to see this spectacular architecture.

10. Ateshgah of Baku

The Ateshgah of Baku, or the Fire Temple of Baku, is a religious temple in a suburb of Baku which resembles a castle. The temple was utilized as a place of worship for those the Sikhs, Hindus, and Zoroastrians. In 2007, the temple was declared by the president of Azerbaijan as a state historical-architectural reserve. In 1998, it was also nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to its historical significance and its fascinating architecture, the Ateshgah of Baku is worth visiting.

◎ Closing

Baku is one of the most distinctive cities in the world because both the Eastern and Western cultures continue to co-exist in this city. When you are making an itinerary for a sightseeing trip to Baku, be sure to include the ten destinations mentioned above.