What is the Capital of Azerbaijan? Baku

Capital City of Azerbaijan: Baku

City Overview

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. It is the largest city in the country and serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of Azerbaijan. Baku has a rich history that stretches back over a millennium, from its roots as a small settlement to its rise as a modern and dynamic metropolis. Today, Baku is a blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge contemporary architecture, symbolizing the balance between the country’s deep history and its rapid modernization.

Historically, Baku was known for its role in the oil industry, which led to its rapid growth in the 19th and 20th centuries. The discovery of oil in the Caspian region made Baku one of the wealthiest cities in the Russian Empire, and later in the Soviet Union. Today, oil remains a vital part of the city’s economy, but Baku has also diversified into sectors such as finance, technology, tourism, and education.

Baku is a key player on the international stage, hosting global events such as the Eurovision Song Contest and Formula 1 Grand Prix. With its futuristic skyline, highlighted by the Flame Towers and modern architectural projects, Baku is often seen as a symbol of Azerbaijan’s economic and technological aspirations. The city also preserves its rich heritage through sites like the Icherisheher (Old City), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Baku Boulevard, a coastal promenade that showcases the city’s picturesque waterfront.

City Facts

• Area: 2,130 square kilometers
• Population: Approximately 2.3 million (2023)
• Time Zone: Azerbaijan Standard Time (AZT), UTC +4
• Highest Mountain: Bazarduzu Mountain, standing at 4,466 meters (14,652 feet), located on the border with Russia, is the highest peak in Azerbaijan.
• Longest River: The Kura River, which is 1,515 kilometers (941 miles) long, flows through much of Azerbaijan before it empties into the Caspian Sea.

Baku’s location on the Caspian Sea has made it a key port and trade center for centuries, facilitating cultural exchange and economic growth. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia has given it geopolitical importance throughout history. Modern Baku is well known for its luxurious shopping centers, high-end hotels, and vibrant nightlife, which attract visitors from around the world.

Major Landmarks in Baku

1. Flame Towers: The Flame Towers are perhaps the most iconic feature of Baku’s skyline. These three futuristic skyscrapers, shaped like flames, symbolize the country’s ancient fire worshipping traditions. The towers are illuminated at night and are one of the city’s most striking landmarks. They house offices, apartments, and a hotel.
2. Icherisheher (Old City): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Icherisheher is the historical heart of Baku. This ancient walled city dates back to the 12th century and contains many historical landmarks, including the Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası) and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace. Walking through Icherisheher feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, stone buildings, and ancient mosques.
3. Baku Boulevard (National Park): A long and scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea, Baku Boulevard is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It offers stunning views of the Caspian Sea, several parks, cafes, and entertainment venues. The boulevard is also home to the Baku Ferris Wheel and the Baku Crystal Hall, a venue that hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012.
4. Heydar Aliyev Center: Designed by the famous Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Center is an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes modernity and innovation. The fluid, curving lines of the building’s design have made it one of Baku’s most photographed landmarks, housing cultural exhibitions and events.
5. Baku Flame Towers: These three iconic skyscrapers are among the tallest buildings in Azerbaijan and are inspired by the country’s ancient fire-worshipping traditions. The towers, which are particularly stunning at night when they are lit up, have become a symbol of modern Baku.
6. Atashgah Fire Temple: Situated on the outskirts of Baku, this ancient Zoroastrian temple was once a place of worship for fire-worshippers. The temple, which is now a museum, showcases the historical and religious significance of fire in Azerbaijan’s ancient culture.
7. Azerbaijan National Museum of Art: Baku has several art museums, but the National Museum of Art is perhaps the most prominent. It houses an impressive collection of Azerbaijani, Russian, and Western European art, and is located in an ornate building that adds to the charm of Baku’s cultural landscape.
8. Fountain Square: One of the most popular spots in central Baku, Fountain Square is known for its lively atmosphere, fountains, and surrounding cafes and shops. It is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike and serves as a central hub for Baku’s vibrant social life.

Climate Overview

Baku has a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Due to its location on the Caspian Sea, the city experiences less extreme temperature variations than inland areas. Summers in Baku are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The city sees little rainfall, and the majority of precipitation occurs in the spring and fall.

Month	Average Temperature (°C)	Average Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days
January	3°C	35 mm	12 days
February	5°C	30 mm	13 days
March	9°C	40 mm	15 days
April	14°C	30 mm	17 days
May	20°C	25 mm	21 days
June	25°C	15 mm	25 days
July	29°C	10 mm	28 days
August	29°C	5 mm	30 days
September	24°C	10 mm	23 days
October	17°C	20 mm	18 days
November	10°C	30 mm	14 days
December	6°C	35 mm	12 days

Other Cities That Have Served as the Capital of Azerbaijan

Historically, Baku has been the capital of Azerbaijan since the country’s independence in 1918 and its resurgence as the capital after the Soviet period. However, during the period of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (1918-1920), other cities also played key roles.

1. Ganja (1918-1920)

During the short period of Azerbaijan’s independence after the Russian Revolution, Ganja served as the capital from 1918 to 1920. It was the second-largest city in Azerbaijan and had historical significance as a cultural and political center. Today, Ganja is a regional hub, known for its historical sites and proximity to the Caucasus mountains.

• Area: 83.6 square kilometers
• Population: Approximately 330,000 (2023)
• Significance: Ganja is known for its historical landmarks, including the Javad Khan Street, Juma Mosque, and Nizami Mausoleum.

Country Facts: Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, bordered by Armenia, Georgia, Russia, Iran, and the Caspian Sea. It is rich in natural resources, particularly oil and gas, and has a developing economy. Azerbaijan is known for its diverse landscape, ranging from mountain ranges and rolling hills to the Caspian Sea coastline.

Key Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 10 million (2023)
• Area: 86,600 square kilometers
• Capital: Baku
• Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
• Official Language: Azerbaijani
• ISO Country Codes: AZ (Alpha-2), AZE (Alpha-3)
• Time Zone: Azerbaijan Standard Time (AZT), UTC +4
• Religion: Predominantly Muslim (Shia Islam is the majority)
• Flag: The flag of Azerbaijan features three horizontal stripes of blue, red, and green, with a white crescent moon and an eight-pointed star.

Azerbaijan is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and other international organizations. It has a rapidly growing economy, thanks to its energy exports and strategic location. The country is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including the ancient city of Sheki, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, and its cuisine, which blends influences from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.