The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Baku

Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. Here are 10 fascinating facts about this beautiful and historic city:

1. Oil Boom

Baku was once a small settlement, but it became a booming oil town in the late 19th century. The city had the world’s first oil well drilled in the Bibi-Heybat suburb in 1846.

2. Old City

Baku’s Old City, also known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic walled city has narrow alleyways, ancient mosques and palaces, and traditional shops selling carpets, sweets, and spices.

3. Flame Towers

The three Flame Towers are the most iconic modern buildings in Baku. The skyscrapers are covered in LED screens that display images of flames, earning them the nickname “Flame Towers”.

4. Mud Volcanoes

Baku is surrounded by over 400 mud volcanoes, which are cones of mud and gas that spew hot mud and gases. These natural wonders are unique to Azerbaijan and a popular tourist attraction.

5. World’s Tallest Flagpole

Baku also boasts the tallest flagpole in the world. The Azerbaijan National Flag flies on a 162-meter tall pole near the National Flag Square.

6. Baku Boulevard

Baku Boulevard is a seaside promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea. The boulevard features fountains, playgrounds, restaurants, and cafes, as well as stunning views of the sea and cityscape.

7. Zoroastrian Fire Temple

The Ateshgah of Baku is a Zoroastrian fire temple that dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The temple was built on a natural gas vent, which fueled the flames that burnt continuously for centuries.

8. European Games

Baku hosted the inaugural European Games in 2015, which featured over 6,000 athletes from 50 countries competing in 20 sports.

9. Heydar Aliyev Center

The Heydar Aliyev Center is a modern architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid. The center is dedicated to the former president of Azerbaijan and features a museum, exhibition halls, and a conference center.

10. Jazz Festival

Baku hosts an annual jazz festival that attracts world-renowned jazz musicians and thousands of music lovers. The festival is held in the historic Old City and features both free and ticketed performances.

In conclusion, Baku is a fascinating and diverse city that combines history, culture, and modern architecture. If you ever have the opportunity to visit, make sure to explore the Old City, marvel at the Flame Towers, and experience the local food and culture.

The Insider’s Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan: The 10 Most Interesting Facts

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan, located on the Caspian Sea, and is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’. A fascinating mix of cultures, Baku offers so much to explore for the curious traveler. Here’s a guide on what to see, eat, and experience, along with ten interesting facts about this incredible city.

History of Baku

Baku is a city with a rich and fascinating history, and its oldest parts date back to the 12th century. The city has been ruled by Persians, Russians, and the Ottoman Empire, which has given it a unique blend of cultures. The Old City, also known as the Inner City, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 and is an excellent place to explore Baku’s past.

Top Attractions

Baku boasts numerous landmarks that will make your stay meaningful. The Maiden Tower, which is located in the Old City, is one of Baku’s most iconic landmarks, dating back over 800 years. The Flame Towers, modern buildings that resemble flames, are another must-see. Other notable sites include the National Museum of History, and the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by world-famous architect Zaha Hadid.

Cultural Experiences

Baku has a rich cultural scene, which includes traditional music, art, and cuisine. Attend a concert of mugham, Azerbaijan’s traditional music, or visit a carpet museum to learn about the art of Azerbaijani rug-making. Experience Azerbaijan’s delicious cuisine with local dishes like dolma, a dish made out of stuffed grape leaves, and kebab, and wash it down with a cup of fragrant Azerbaijani tea.

Best Dining Spots

From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Baku has no shortage of dining options to suit any budget. Some of the must-try dishes include plov, a hearty rice pilaf, and qutab, a type of savory pancake filled with meat or cheese. Café City, Samovar, and Art Garden are highly recommended for their excellent food and atmosphere.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

While Baku has its famous landmarks, there are also many off-the-beaten-path experiences to explore. Attend a local football (soccer) game at the Tofik Bakhramov Stadium, named after the Azerbaijani linesman who famously signaled England’s third goal in their 1966 FIFA World Cup Final win. Take a stroll on Boulevard Street, the city’s seafront promenade, where you’ll find plenty of cafes, shops, and entertainment options.

10 Interesting Facts About Baku

1. Baku has been inhabited for over 5,000 years.
2. Baku is the lowest lying national capital city in the world.
3. Oil was discovered in Baku in the 19th century, leading to the city’s oil boom.
4. The city features the first-ever oil well in the world, called ‘Balakhany-Suranov-Deep’.
5. Azerbaijan is the birthplace of the famous chess player, Garry Kasparov.
6. Baku’s subway system is built almost entirely by hand.
7. Baku’s architecture is a unique blend of East and West.
8. Baku hosted the first-ever European Games in 2015.
9. The country’s official language, Azerbaijani, is spoken by over 13 million people worldwide.
10. Azerbaijan was the first Muslim-majority country to give women the right to vote in 1918.

In conclusion, Baku offers something for everyone, from stunning architecture to delicious food and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s past or enjoying its modern amenities, there’s no shortage of things to do in this fascinating capital city.