Baku and Beyond

In late October 2023, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Azerbaijan with friends and family. The country, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offered a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Our adventure took us from the vibrant city of Baku to the serene landscapes near the Quba mountains, and every moment felt like a discovery of the country’s unique charm.

A Blend of the Old and the New

Baku, the capital city, was our first stop. The juxtaposition of the Old City (Icherisheher) and modern architectural marvels like the Flame Towers perfectly captured Azerbaijan’s blend of tradition and innovation. Walking through the narrow, cobbled streets of Icherisheher felt like stepping back in time, with its ancient mosques, palaces, and fortified walls. The Maiden Tower, a symbol of Baku’s history, stood tall, overlooking the Caspian Sea, while nearby, the modern skyline glistened under the autumn sun.

One of the most striking modern structures we visited was the Heydar Aliyev Centre, designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid. Its flowing, futuristic design symbolized Azerbaijan’s forward-looking vision and became a favourite spot for photos. The interior was just as impressive, housing exhibitions that highlighted the country’s cultural heritage.

Exploring the Land of Fire

A trip to Azerbaijan wouldn’t be complete without diving into its ancient Zoroastrian roots. The Ateshgah Fire Temple, located a short drive from Baku, gave us a fascinating glimpse into the region’s religious history. This temple has links to the Parsi community in India and even to Hinduism. The ever-burning natural flame in the temple courtyard was mesmerizing, as it has been fuelled by natural gas seeping from the earth for centuries, and it felt deeply spiritual to stand in a place that has been a site of worship for millennia.

Equally awe-inspiring was Yanardagh, or “Burning Mountain.” As the name suggests, the hillside has been ablaze for as long as anyone can remember, thanks to natural gas emissions. Watching the fire dance along the slopes as the evening air cooled was both eerie and beautiful, a reminder of the natural wonders that define Azerbaijan.

A Unique Natural Wonder

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the mud volcanoes near Gobustan. Azerbaijan is home to nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes, and seeing them up close was a surreal experience. The landscape looked almost otherworldly, with bubbling mud pits and mounds stretching out into the distance. I was fascinated by the geological forces behind these natural phenomena, making the visit both educational and thrilling.

A Scenic Drive to the Quba Mountains

Our journey continued as we ventured north toward the Quba region, where the autumn landscape was a sight to behold. The drive itself was filled with scenic views, as golden leaves blanketed the trees and the crisp mountain air filled our lungs. The natural beauty of the Quba mountains was the perfect contrast to the bustling energy of Baku.

In Quba, we took time to enjoy nature and the tranquillity of the region. The autumn colours were at their peak, and walking through the forests felt like being in a painting. It was the ideal way to unwind after our days of exploration.

A Surprise Find

One of the unexpected delights of the trip was the Baku Car Museum. As someone who appreciates classic cars, I was thrilled to discover this hidden gem. The museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage automobiles, from Soviet-era vehicles to sleek sports cars. It was a treat for both the car enthusiasts in our group and those who simply appreciated the craftsmanship and history of these machines.

Reflections on Azerbaijan

Our trip to Azerbaijan was more than just a vacation; it was an immersion into a land where ancient history and modernity coexist harmoniously. Baku’s dynamic skyline, the ancient fire temple, the natural beauty of the Quba mountains, and the unexpected surprises along the way all contributed to an unforgettable experience.

As we boarded our flight back home, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the memories we created together. Azerbaijan had left a lasting impression.