Today, we would like to talk about the miraculous country of Azerbaijan with its unlimited natural resources, centuries-old culture, history, and ancient people, whose lifestyle presents a unique and harmonious combination of the traditions and ceremonies of different cultures and civilizations. Azerbaijan officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a transcontinental country located at the boundary of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is a part of the South Caucasus region and is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia (Republic of Dagestan) to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia and Turkey to the west, and Iran to the south.
Azerbaijan is a country of ancient culture. The Oguz tribes which moved here and stayed for ages have found a deeply rooted culture and in their turn enriched it with Turkic national traditions. The talented and creative powers of our nation are personified in such epic monuments as "Kitabi-Dede Gorgud", "Oguzname" "Koroghlu" and many others.
This fertile, generous, and friendly land was the home of many thinkers, philosophers, scientists, poets, architects, musicians, and artists. A legend tells that Zardusht was born in this land. Azerbaijan also enriched humankind with such geniuses as Nizami Ganjavi, Khagani Shirvani, Bahmanyar, Nasimi, Fuzuli, Nasreddin Tusi, Shah Ismail Khatai, Mullah Panah Vagif, A. Bakikhanov, M.F. Axudov, M.A. Sabir, J.Mamedguluzade, Huseyn Javid, J.Jabarli, Samed Vurgun, Aliagha Vahid, Rasul Rza.
The country of Azerbaijan was immortalized by such talented painters as Sattar Bahlulzade, Tahir Salahov, Togrul Narimanbeyov, Mikayil Abdullayev, and many others.
Our national music — mugam — inspired such outstanding composers as Uzeyir Hajibeyov, Muslim Magomayev, Gara Garayev, Fikrat Amirov, Niyazi, Arif Melikov, and others to create their masterpieces, which are still known today throughout the world. It also gave inspiration to such wonderful vocalists as Bulbul and Rashid Behbudov.
From the beginning of the 19th century, the continuous industrial development around the world caused an unprecedented growth of the demand for oil. It was at this time oil turned from every day means into an industrial product. Oil become the most important problem in the world in the 20th century — the century of science and technologies. Oil-producing countries have acquired special oil policies and oil strategies in this connection. Azerbaijan has membership in the United Nations (UN), Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Council of Europe (CE), Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), GUUAM, Organization of Islamic Conference, Black Sea Economic Collaboration (BSEC), Organization of Economic Cooperation (OEC). Azerbaijan also actively cooperates with the European Union, NATO, International Monetary Fund, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Islamic Development Bank, and other organizations. It accedes to the new joint documents and international agreements.
Baku is the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan. It is a large scientific, cultural and industrial centre. Ancient foundations, a large area and a population all make Baku one of the oldest and largest cities in the East. Baku is situated on the shore of the Caspian Sea in the south of the Absheron peninsula. It covers an area of 2.200 square km and has a population of 2 million. Baku has 11 administrative districts and 5 settlements.
Baku – a truly contemporary city criss-crossed by history. From the modern elegance of the Flame Towers standing proudly above to the medieval UNESCO-listed Old City at its core, there is something for everyone in our stunning capital.
Baku offers an enticing variety of attractions to satisfy travellers of every type:
Stroll down Baku Boulevard, a famous seaside avenue along the shore of the Caspian Sea and a must-see for first-time visitors to Baku. The huge embankment stretches over 25 kilometres and amazes visitors with its impressive displays of original architecture. (Baku dress code tip: No matter the time of year, have a jacket handy, as Baku Boulevard will put to rest any doubts in your mind as to why the capital is called the City of Winds!)
Get lost in the cobblestone labyrinth of Old Town, rich in history and Old World charm.
Feel like royalty at Shirvanshahs Palace, Baku’s medieval government headquarters where the famous Soviet movie “The Diamond Arm” was shot.
Climb Maiden’s Tower, a symbol of the city and one of the most mysterious buildings in the capital that provides a tangible history lesson and an amazing city view.
Chill out at Nagorny Park as you enjoy gorgeous views of Baku and the Caspian Sea from the highest point in the city.
Weave your way through the Carpet Museum, which tells the stories of Azerbaijan through the beautiful ornamentation and interwoven colors of traditional local carpets.
Increase your cultural IQ at the Heydar Aliyev Culture Center, sure to impress lovers of modern and contemporary art with its unique architecture and informative exhibitions. Be sure to stick around to appreciate the sparkling illumination of the center after sunset.
