Why is Baku the capital of Azerbaijan?

Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan and its largest city. Baku is the political and industrial hub of Azerbaijan–the country which is located on the west coast of the Caspian Sea, between two mountain ranges, the Caucasus and the Talysh Mountains. Baku has long been a center of trade and cultural exchange, stretching back to at least the 10th century, due to its strategic location on the Silk Road and its importance as a center of the oil and natural gas industry.It is believed that Baku was founded by a Persian nomad tribe, the Sasanids, in the 6th century BCE, and it was later conquered by Arabs in the 8th century CE. It then changed hands multiple times over the centuries between its various rulers, including various nomadic groups and empires such as the Seljuks, Mongols, Russians and Ottomans. By the 15th century, Baku was under Ottoman control and served as an important trading port.In 1806, the area was annexed by Russia and became part of the Russian Empire. During this period, the population of Baku rose dramatically as a result of large-scale immigration and industrialization. By 1880, the population had grown to over 50,000 people and Baku had become an important industrial powerhouse and one of the largest cities in the Caucasus.In 1921, after Azerbaijan declared its independence from Russia, Baku was chosen as its capital. The city’s strategic location, its port on the Caspian Sea, its importance to the oil and natural gas industry, its booming population and vibrant culture made it an ideal place for the newly founded nation to establish a seat of government. Today, Baku is a bustling, modern city that continues to be an important hub for the oil and natural gas industries in Azerbaijan. Its economy and infrastructure have improved dramatically in recent years; this has allowed it to become a hub for technology, finance, and culture in the region. This combination of economic growth, geopolitical significance, and cultural importance easily justify why Baku is the right choice for the capital of Azerbaijan. Baku is also home to some important historical landmarks and beautiful natural features. The city center is home to cultural attractions such as the The Maiden Tower (a UN World Heritage Site) as well as museums and galleries highlighting Azerbaijani culture. On top of that, Baku is located on a long stretch of coastline along the Caspian Sea, giving it both stunning views and nice beaches. The nearby mountain ranges also add to its charm and provide a great place for adventure seekers. For these reasons and more, it is clear why Baku is an ideal choice as the nation’s capital. As a politically significant place with a rich history and vibrant culture, along with plenty of natural beauty and economic opportunities, Baku is certainly a great pick for Azerbaijan’s center of government activity. If you are wanting to learn more about this amazing city, you can visit Baku City Tours, which offers comprehensive city tours, private walks through history-rich neighborhoods, museum visits, day trips to famous landmarks, and authentic local experiences throughout Azerbaijan that are sure to surprise even experienced travelers.

An Insider’s Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku is not only the capital of Azerbaijan but also the largest city in the country. It is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea and is known for its oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. Baku is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. The city features a blend of modern and historical architecture, and visitors can expect to find an array of outdoor and indoor activities to cater to different tastes. Here is an insider’s guide to the beautiful city of Baku.

Attractions

Baku’s Old City, also known as Icheri Sheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a window into the city’s ancient history. The old town features a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets and alleyways that lead visitors past mosques, caravanserais, palaces, and other ancient structures. Visitors can also enjoy the Maiden Tower, a well-known landmark, which offers a fantastic viewpoint of the city.

Another attraction to visit in Baku is the Heydar Aliyev Center, one of the most iconic pieces of contemporary architecture in Azerbaijan. This center houses a collection of art exhibits, events, panoramas, and temporary exhibitions.

For those interested in modern architecture, the Flame Towers are three towers that take the shape of flames and are Baku’s new landmark. Visitors can also take a walk along the Seaside Boulevard which stretches for nearly 3.5 miles along the Caspian Sea.

Dining Spots

Baku boasts of some of the best dining spots in Azerbaijan, ranging from fine dining to street eats. For instance, Nergiz (Sheikh Shamil Street) is a great option for those interested in local cuisine. The restaurant offers traditional Azerbaijani food such as plov, kebabs and stew.

Another popular spot for tourists and locals alike is the cafe Art Garden (Nizami St) which serves Mediterranean, European and Asian food in an outdoor courtyard with artistic decor. The menu includes delicious dishes such as risotto, sushi, and pizza, while the interior incorporates pieces of street art.

And for a more upscale dining experience, Sky Grill (Khatai Avenue) is an open-air, rooftop restaurant with a view of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, with a good selection of international dishes and an extensive list of wines and cocktails.

Cultural Experiences

For those who want to explore Baku’s rich history and culture, there are many museums and art galleries to visit. The Azerbaijan National Museum of History is a great place to start and features exhibits on the history of the country. Visitors can also visit the Carpet Museum, which showcases a vast collection of Azerbaijani carpets, some dating back to the 17th century.

Azerbaijan is also renowned for its mud volcanoes, which are popular as day trips from Baku. Gobustan National Park, located about 40 minutes from Baku, is home to over 6,000 rock petroglyphs dating back to between 5,000 and 20,000 years. This site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Local History

Baku has played an important role in Azerbaijan’s history, and it was under the rule of the Shirvanshahs who made it a political, cultural, and commercial hub. The city fell under the control of Persia and later the Soviet Union, and became an important center for the oil industry during the Soviet era.

The city bears the footprints of the Soviet era, with memorials and statues of political leaders scattered throughout the city. The Flame Towers, the iconic landmark of modern Baku, serves as a symbol of the country’s rich historical connection with the oil industry which dates back to the 19th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors looking for unique experiences, the Baku Eye is an excellent option. It is one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the world, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

The Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre is another hidden gem in Baku. It features stunning decor and performances of the ballet and opera by world-renowned artists.

Final Thoughts

Baku is an exciting city and provides visitors with a unique blend of ancient and modern history and culture. The city is safe, modern, and offers a range of activities that will cater to different traveler preferences. From exploring historical sites and national parks to enjoying trendy dining and nightlife, Baku is a city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.