Welcome to the versatile Azerbaijan where history and art intertwine in a remarkable manner. With various suggestions and offerings, Azerbaijan is a right destination for the ones who find peace in art when travelling. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse architectural legacy of the capital city Baku, where history comes to life before your very eyes. A blend of west and east, ancient and modern exteriors will create an experience beyond your expectations.
In Baku, you will discover the mediaeval atmosphere in the cobbled streets of UNESCO inscribed Old Town together with Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah’s Palace, and relish magnetic contemporary architecture such as the elegance of the Flame Towers and futuristic Heydar Aliyev Centre. Cosmopolitan Baku has an extensive selection of artistic selections – museums, theaters, art houses and centers for art enthusiasts. Those locations will be a perfect addition to your days in Baku, richening them with aesthetics, knowledge and long-lasting cheerful memories.
Heydar Aliyev Center, a preeminent architectural marvel situated at the heart of Baku, beckons tourists’ attention. Designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid, stunning structure won London Design Museum Prestigious Design of the Year Award. The extraordinary appearance gives special and picturesque view to the city itself and homes to local, cultural, and global arts. The big collection of crats, miniature version of key landmarks, unique classical car collections are the main findings you are going to explore in the center. Yet another exemplar of contemporary artistic ingenuity is the Museum of Modern Art, showcasing an impressive collection exceeding 800 artworks, originating from renowned sculptors with over seven decades of prolific creative output. Tahir Salahov’s significant paintings who is one of the well-known Azerbaijani artists, occupies a distinctive place in the museum.
Another dynamic artistic location is YARAT Contemporary Art Space located next to the Flag Square with the view to the Caspian Sea. Contemporary and modern art seekers are welcomed in these centers to renovate and discuss their feedbacks with guests. The Carpet Museum, situated on the Seaside Boulevard, is one of Baku’s modern architectural icons, shaped like a rolled-up carpet. Today, the Carpet Museum is home to the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets in the world – over 6,000. Here, you’ll be able to uncover the ins and outs of Azerbaijan’s 7 regional carpet weaving schools and learn the meaning behind the multitude of designs, which reflect local culture, nature and beliefs.
Azerbaijani classical fine arts have a unique future that illustrates the long-lasting history and culture of the nation. Magnificent 20th century’s architecture Azerbaijani Opera and Ballet Theatre boasts plenty of classical and national theatre productions. The opera team, symphony orchestra, ballet company, and choir are the substantial sectors of the institution. The first opera in the Muslim world –”Leyli and Majnun” is also demonstrated on the stages of theater which obtains a significant reputation in the region. Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theatre is another notable art center that played a leading role in the artistic life of the country. Since its inception, the theatre homes to plenty of cultural plays and operas and illustrates the cultural heritage of the people that lived there.
Just outside of Baku, travelers can visit an “open space museum” where art represents history of our most ancient ancestors. Here, at the UNESCO listed Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve, a home to an astonishing collection of over 7,000 ancient petroglyphs, one can learn about prehistoric human society. Depicted scenes of people, warriors, animals, boats, dances, hunting, camel caravans and more, they chart ways of life dating back between 5,000 and 20,000 years. What’s more, just a short drive away lies the mystery of Azerbaijan’s many mud volcanoes, which boast unearthly, moon-like landscapes. Azerbaijan is home to 700 out of the 1700 known mud volcanoes on Earth, including the world’s largest mud volcano, Toraghay.
Choosing Azerbaijan as your next art tourism destination promises to leave you in a state of awe and enrich your soul with exceptional cultural experiences found nowhere else. To easily plan your perfect adventure, head to Azerbaijan.travel for more information.
