Popular Destinations in Azerbaijan
Ganja
The second largest city in Azerbaijan, Ganja is in the northwestern part of
the country. Among the oldest cities in the region, there are many places
to see and things to do in the city, from visiting an Islamic pilgrimage
site to staying in an old Soviet hotel. Ganja is best explored on foot,
with many of its attractions within walking distance. Several buildings
belong to traditional Islamic architecture style as well as Soviet-style
architecture. In the Old Town, visitors will come across City Hall, Russian
Church of Alexander Nevsky, Bottle House, Monument to Nizami Ganjavi, House
of Israfil Mammadov, and Promenade of Elizavetpol Governorate. The Juma
Mosque (also known as of Shah Abbas Mosque) comprises medieval baths,
beautiful ornamental fountains, and the tomb of Javadkhan. For history
buffs, nearby is the ancient city of Ganja, an archaeological site with the
ruins of a walled fort. Ganja is lined with cultural institutions, such as
Ganja State History and Ethnography Museum, Museum and International
Literature Center of Meskheti Ganjavi, Ganja State Drama Theatre, Museum of
Heydar Aliyev, and Ganja Philharmonic Society. Nature lovers can explore
Heydar Aliyev Park Complex, Khan Baghi gardens and the Goygol National Park
which is home to lynx, bears, and deer. Other major landmarks in Ganja
include German Lutheran Church, Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum, Complex Goy Imam,
Ozan Mosque to name a few.
Baku
Capital of Azerbaijan, Baku lies along the Caspian Sea. This commercial hub
of Azerbaijan is famed for its medieval walled city, Icheri Seher. The ‘Old
City’, Icheri Seher is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Baku.
Visitors will find here architectural marvels such as 12th
century Maiden Tower and the 13th century Palace of the
Shirvanshahs. Other major landmarks in Baku include Ateshgah of Baku, Baku
Boulevard, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, Fountains Square, Martyrs' Lane, Palace of
Happiness, and Ismailiyya building.
Shaki
Located in northwestern Azerbaijan, in the west of Baku, is Shaki. The city
is known as one of the oldest human settlements in all the Caucasus region.
Shaki was famous for textiles, especially exquisite silks. This tradition
is still alive in the city today, and visitors will find local handicrafts
such as ornate embroidery on offer. In addition to the traditional arts and
crafts found here, Shaki is home to mosques, castles, and ancient
bathhouses. The 18th century Palace of Shaki Khans is the major
landmark in the city. The architectural wonder was built in its entirety
without the use of any nails. Other tourist attractions in Shaki are
Albanian Church, Gelersen-Gorersen fortress, and Tarix-Diyarsunasl?q
Museum.