Baku

The historical depth and quick modernization of Azerbaijan are best shown by Baku, the capital and biggest city. Situated by the Bay of Baku on the southern side of the Absheron Peninsula, this city boasts about two million residents, almost 25% of Azerbaijan’s whole population. Being the lowest-lying national capital and the biggest city below sea level globally, Baku stands out for its unusual geographical location—28 meters (92 feet) below sea level.

The strategic orientation of the city on the western coast of the Caspian Sea has shaped its historical course. Over time, Baku’s importance as the center of industry, trade, and culture has grown, so confirming its primacy as the principal city of Azerbaijan. The metropolitan scene shows the temporal development of the city and future aspirations by means of a striking fusion of historical architecture and modern designs.

Reflecting the city’s vast area and varied urban structure, Baku is administratively arranged into twelve raions and comprises 48 townships. This administrative system reaches to the prominent industrial settlement of Neft Daşları and covers the mainland as well as the islands of the Baku Archipelago. Built on oil platforms 60 kilometers (37 miles) into the Caspian Sea, Neft Daşları reflects Baku’s ongoing ties to the oil sector, which has greatly shaped the city’s economic growth.

At the center of the city is the Old City of Baku, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Two of the most important buildings of the city are found in the ancient core: the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. These architectural works reflect the historical significance of Baku and are popular tourist attractions. The Old City presents a striking juxtaposition of historical and modern elements since its narrow winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture differ greatly from the surrounding modern developments.

Above all, Baku is the scientific, cultural, and industrial center of Azerbaijan. Many important Azerbaijani organizations in the city support creativity, education, and cultural preservation by means of innovation. By means of the combined intellectual and creative resources, Baku has positioned itself at the forefront of Azerbaijan’s growth and acted as a driver of national development.

Baku has become well-known in recent years for hosting elite events from all around the world, proving its ability. The modern infrastructure and cosmopolitan surroundings of the city make it a suitable venue for many kinds of foreign events. Baku attracted international notice in 2012 when it hosted the 57th Eurovision Song Contest. The multi-sport 2015 European Games then proved Baku’s capacity to host major international events.

The 4th Islamic Solidarity Games, which brought athletes from Islamic countries in a show of sport and unity, confirmed the city’s growing reputation as a sports and entertainment center. Beginning with the European Grand Prix in 2016, Baku entered motorsports then moved to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017 and became a regular and interesting event on the Formula One calendar. The city’s ability to host a range of events was highlighted by its choice as one of the host cities for UEFA Euro 2020, which was finally postponed owing to world events, and by its hosting of the final of the 2018–19 UEFA Europa League.

The economic value of Baku goes beyond its capacity as a hub of sports and culture. With capacity to handle two million tons of general and dry bulk cargoes annually, the Baku International Sea Trade Port is indispensable for regional trade. By connecting Europe and Asia, this port facility emphasizes Baku’s importance as a strategic hub in world trade paths.

Strong winds in Baku’s climate define it most and help to explain its nickname, “City of Winds.” Though sometimes troublesome, the winds have evolved into a basic feature of the city’s character and influenced its architecture and urban design over millennia.

Baku has become rather well-known among the Caucasus in recent years as a travel destination. With revenues of 7 million euros in 2009, the hotel sector in the city has grown significantly and major foreign hotel chains have entered the Azerbaijani capital. Diverse attractions draw tourists to the energetic Fountains Square in the city center and the picturesque One and Thousand Nights Beach and Shikhov Beach along the Caspian coast.

Known as the “burning mountain,” Yanar Dag is one of the most unique attractions right outside of Baku. This natural phenomenon, marked by ongoing burning of natural gas seeping from the ground, offers guests an interesting perspective on the rich hydrocarbon resources of the area, which have greatly helped Baku grow.

The city’s skyline has changed dramatically in recent years, with the rise of contemporary architectural projects next to ancient buildings. Notable addition is the National Flag Square, opened on September 2, 2010. When it was finished, it had the highest flagpole in the world, so symbolizing national pride and Baku’s aim to be very visible abroad. Though Dushanbe, Tajikistan, topped it in 2011, and the flagpole was later taken down, the project highlighted Baku’s desire to create famous sites drawing international attention.