Europe and Asia proudly call Azerbaijan one of their gem countries located on these two continents. Azerbaijan is increasingly being recognized as a prime destination for tourists who want to experience rich culture heritage, history and natural beauty. Comprising diverse landscapes from water to land such as the vast sea in the anterior region and the mountain range of the Caspian, and culturally influenced by the Persians, the Turks, and the Russians, who settled and ruled in, Azerbaijan makes a decor for every one looking for out of the ordinary.
Geography and Natural Beauty: An overview One of Azerbaijan’s astonishing factors features concerning Aiden is its Amazing geographical diversity. From the shores of the Caspian Sea,which has the largest inland sea in the world, to the rugged terrain of the Caspian Mountain range, the countryside of the nation provides an attraction for any type of Traveler. The coastline features stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and all inclusive spa services , hill resort and spa services particularly around the capital Baku. The Caspian Mountains part of the majestic Caucasus range. and to the East of the coast are breathtaking for active sports. A trip to Gobustan National Park which is renowned for ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes and arid landscapes is a worthwhile adventure. The herbaceous ravines of Azerbaijan are a paradise for the active and eco-tourism, and cities such as Gabala, Sheki and Guba are already full of nature photographs from the tourists all over the world.
Growing Tourism Infrastructure Azerbaijan’s tourism industry has grown gradually, especially in Baku, Gabala, Ganja, and other cities. Therefore, the governmental bodies paid special attention to the construction of hotels and resorts as well as transport networks so that people can move with ease around the country. The government has developed and promotes modern airports, roads and luxury hotels making it impossible for tourists to ignore the country’s enticing potential.
Recently, the nation has become more proactive in marketing different products of interest to international vacationers and business visitors. Gabala’s scenic wine tours and Guba and Sheki’s echo-tourism attraction are aimed at the influx of tourists hungry fro specific types of services.
Rich Culture Heritage Azerbaijan’s ethnic background is as diverse as its geography. The country has multiple World Heritage Sites including the Fortified Old City of Baku or Icherisheher and the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Icherisheher features the iconic Maiden Tower and palace of shirvan shahs these defining artifacts from Azerbaijan’s past as an important trading and cultural center, help narrate the backstory. The west-northern part of the country where the town of Sheki is located is famous for its traditional buildings including an 18th century breathtaking edifice known as the Sheki Khan palace with amazing stain glass works and wall paintings. Located in the north is the isolated village of Khinalug, which has picturesque scenes and the strangely beautiful people of its setting.
Baku: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, is a city of contrast with many old structures interspersed by newer buildings. The historic city is very well preserved whereas some of the state-of-the-art buildings have been erected in this region. The skyline in this case is jaw-droppingly busy due to elements called the Flame Towers in the form of three tall standing buildings designed in the ideas of flames. There is also a venue designed by Zaha Hadid that is also a part of the Baku skyline which is unlike any other building in the city. Besides it, there is also a sea-side boulevard called Baku Boulevard where you can enjoy a nice walk since it is surrounded by parks, museums, and restaurants. Development infrastructure for competitions, orientation towards holding major events has made and made this city an international center for such events. Even more so, Azerbaijan cuisine is one of the best due to the balance blend of Middle Eastern, Turkish and Persian which includes plov, kebabs.
Azerbaijani Cuisine and Traditions
Azerbaijani cuisine reflects the divers culture that have shaped the country. Traditional Azerbaijan meals typically include fresh greens vegetables and meat. Saffron and meat rice cooked delicately is called plov, and is one of the revered national dishes, as well as lamb or chicken on skewers called kebabs and dolma filled with seasoned rice.
As authentic as the other aspects of Azerbaijan’s hospitality and social structure is tea, and the tea culture in the country is very much social. Azerbaijan boasts of another rich cultural art of carpet, also famous all over the world and inscribed in the list of UNESCO Intangible Culture Assets of Azerbaijan. Such is the praise and affection for carpets from Azerbaijan that they are found pleasing even in the far corners of the world. Music is also an integral part, as mugham music, which is a form of art in its original sense, has been included in the list of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Azerbaijan is a destination with many amazing features; it has plenty of historical places, beautiful nature, and vibrant cultural practices. In other words, whether visiting the sculpted stone cities and mountains, tucking in the delicious local meals or enjoying the scenery, Azerbaijan guarantees an unforgettable experience. Given that the country is still expanding its tourism facilities and services, several tourists are already visiting the country in search of a concealed alternative in the Kaukaz region. Azerbaijan is a must-visit destination for those seeking the extraordinary.
Ms. Bisma Liaqat is PRCCSF Fellow and Participant of FJHS-PRCCSF Fellowship Program 2024.
