Azerbaijan has become an ideal tourist destination due to the its increasingly growing influence in the global tourism market. It has become darling of the East and confront zone for the West. It is full of natural surprises, super lands, beauty and best hospitality. It is indeed a wonder land where secretes of nature converge with diversity of multiculturalism. It is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bordered by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, it was an important thoroughfare on the Silk Road, the ancient web of trade routes linking East and West.
Development of tourism sector: A Giant Step towards Further Diversification of Economy
Development of tourism sector is indeed a giant step towards diversity of economy and channels of production in the world and especially in Azerbaijan where sustainable development of the non-oil sector, in particular the tourism sector, is crucial at a time when it is impossible to fully rely on oil and gas industry. Azerbaijan is ranked 25 out of 190 economies in the World Bank’s annual ease of doing business ratings, jumping from 57 in 2017.
Azerbaijan: Cradle of Civilization
Despite its rapid socio-economic development and massive industrialization, Azerbaijan has also protected, preserved and played an instrumental role in conserving Islamic culture, national ethnic heritage and local architecture. It is a “Cradle of Civilization”. It is home of “Gülüstan Monument”, “Noah’s Mausoleum” and of “Momine Khatun Mausoleum” in Nakhchivan. Azerbaijan the “Land of Fire and Pomegranates” has become a special tourist destination where visitors appreciate unique urban developments, a synergy of western and eastern architecture, natural beauty and outstanding hospitality offered in Azerbaijan’s oldest cities, spiced up by carpet museums and unforgettable tasting of Kurdamir’s locally made wine and the creamy goat cheese of Jalilabad. Indeed, Azerbaijan has many beautiful mountainous landscapes of the Caucasus having impressive cultural heritage sites, and unique Islamic Cultural sites are the highlight on every major city and district of Azerbaijan.
The writings of Sabir in Baku and of Jalil Mammadguluzadeh in Nakhchivan embody the very essence of highly acclaimed patriotic movements and hardships of the Azerbaijani People, they describe the country’s historic landmarks as well as its remarkable multiculturalism tradition that goes back many centuries.
Global Travel & Tourism Significance
In the modern world and global economic system, tourism is one of the most dynamically developing and profitable sectors of the economy for every country. According to The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) latest report travel & tourism sector has generated 319 million jobs, 10.4% GDP globally during the last months. It experienced 3.9% growth as compared to global economy 3.2 in the same period. In the globalizing world tourism is a lucrative part of the economy and makes a great contribution to the budget of most countries.
Prime Examples of Economics of Tourism
Turkey, Spain, Malta, Iceland, Dubai and other countries are the success stories in the field of tourism. Tourism now has global importance; it regulates social economic relations, creates reciprocal ties between countries nations, and expands business. At the end of the last century, over 450bn dollars in revenue were obtained from tourism globally, and average annual growth was over 4.3 per cent. Estimates suggest that by 2020 tourism will reach its peak of development and the number of tourists will exceed 1.5bn that year.
Azerbaijan: Fastest-Growing Destinations for Tourists
Azerbaijan is among the fastest-growing destinations for tourists. The country enjoys a great potential for the development of tourism. Nature, climate, historical monuments, cuisine, rich culture of the people and other factors are the core strength for the development of many associated areas of tourism. There are wide opportunities for Azerbaijan to be recognized as a tourist destination in the world.
Victory of Azerbaijan’s New Tourism Brand
Most recently, Azerbaijan’s new tourism brand has won six nominations at the Transform Awards Middle East and North Africa event, which is organized annually by Transform, famous global magazine for rebranding and brand development.
Azerbaijan State Tourism Agency (2019)
According to Azerbaijan State Tourism Agency (2019), the country’s new brand “Take another look”, which was prepared by the well-known company Landor, won in the “Best use of copy style or tone of voice”, “Best place or nation brand”, “Best visual identity from the travel, leisure and tourism sector” nominations and received a bronze award for the “Best use of a visual property”. Furthermore, Azerbaijan’s new tourism brand was also awarded “Highly commended” status in the “Best implementation of a brand development project” nomination.
Azerbaijan: A Diversified & Dynamic Country
Azerbaijan is a country in the South Caucasus and in the world where ancient temples stand side by side with buildings designed by the best modern architects. The image of the capital, Baku, is a bizarre and at the same time harmonious combination of antiquity and innovation.
Azerbaijan today is known and recognized at the world level as a new attractive tourist destination on the Eurasian continent. Foreign guests speak highly about its qualitative infrastructure, unique architecture, balanced development in all sectors, ancient history and the rich centuries old diversified and dynamic culture, as well as the stability and security of a comfortable stay in Azerbaijan.
President Ilham Aliyev’s Instrumental Role
Undoubtedly, President Ilham Aliyev has played a central role in the development of tourism sector which has been further revolutionized through the implementation of various policies/ programs and meaningful and interactive strategies for the comprehensive development of the country due to which tourism has become one of the most attractive sectors of national economy for inflows of foreign direct investments (FDIs).
Azerbaijan’s Participation/Contribution in 2018
During 2018, Azerbaijan took part in international tourism exhibition, World Travel Market in the exhibition center ‘Excel London.’ Within the exhibition, the Azerbaijan Tourism Bureau held a presentation of the new tourism branding of the country the “Take Another Look” marketing campaign.
Azerbaijan: An Ultimate Beauty on the Planet
It was a well-organized effort in the field of international marketing to offer as well as attract more and more minds and souls to visit Azerbaijan, the “ultimate beauty on earth”. One of the main goals of participation in this prestigious exhibition is to submit as many tourist offers to international markets as possible, to become a world-famous destination brand, and to introduce the unique material and spiritual heritage of the country to the global community.
Azerbaijan’s Diversified but Integrated Efforts
Azerbaijan is now implementing a number of important measures to accelerate development of tourism, tourism being one of the main areas of the non-oil sector of the economy. Tourism is recognized as a sphere of economic activity that serves the interests of the citizens, also being a great source of income. The Azerbaijan tourism sector is becoming one of the main factors creating additional jobs, accelerating the development of road and hotel construction, stimulating the production of all types of vehicles, and contributing to the preservation of folk crafts and national culture. In short, it acts as a catalyst for socio-economic development.
Infrastructural Development
The recent construction of many hotels and road-transport infrastructure meeting modern requirements, in various regions of the country, has increased interest in the regions of Azerbaijan among both foreign and local tourists. In the regard, on decision of President Ilham Aliyev during 2018 the State Agency for Tourism was established. Tourism in Azerbaijan has been identified as a priority direction for the development of the economy, announced as an “industry of national importance.”
Azerbaijan’s ‘Strategic Roadmap for the Development
Moreover, Azerbaijan’s ‘Strategic Roadmap for the Development of a Specialized Tourism Industry” approved by President Ilham Aliyev in 2016 outlines the goals and objectives for ensuring the effective operation of the Azerbaijani tourism industry, which should “contribute to the formation of state and population incomes.” It is expected that over the next 10 years, the industry would make up to 10 percent of the country’s GDP. Moreover, laws “On the attraction of foreign investments into the country” and “On the repatriation of funds”, the state programme for socio-economic development and other important state documents help in the development of tourism. They have made it possible to attract foreign investors and businessmen into the local market.
Azerbaijan enjoys natural and mysterious abundance. Every nook, every region and the splendidly rich flora and fauna intrigue all who pass through. The most famous illustrious and courageous travelers compared it to the world’s most beautiful and picturesque sites. The French writer and traveler Alexandre Dumas, French archaeologist Jacques de Morgan, Russian traveller Ilya Berezin and others commended the nature and people of Azerbaijan in their memoirs and travel notes.
Azerbaijan’s Touristic Potential
Azerbaijan’s touristic potential is indeed incomparable: from the Caspian Sea shoreline to the hiking and ski trails in the Caucasus Mountains, the fascinating East-meets-West vibe, the richly textured gastronomical scene and its quickly expanding contemporary arts reputation. Azerbaijan is an internationally competitive, premier four-season tourism destination where travelers have access to extraordinary experiences. It’s fascinating beauty inspires the world to explore it. It has all the natural and geographic potential of a tourist destination. The shores of the Caspian, the Mugan, Karabakh, the Mil plains, the mountains, forests, rivers, springs, lakes, summer recreation areas, and historical monuments are headline tourist attractions. Azerbaijan enjoys nine of the world’s 11 climate zones, adding to the range of destinations on offer. As entrepreneurship grows stronger, the opportunities for the development of tourism centres grow.
Azerbaijan’s Tourism Sector Strategy
Azerbaijan’s tourism sector strategy emphasizes event tourism, such as hosting business conferences and international sporting events. The expansion of airline destination offerings and simplified visa procedures has also opened Azerbaijan to ordinary tourists from the Middle East. Azerbaijan Airlines, or “AZAL,” (passenger) and Silk Way Airlines (cargo) began direct flights to New York in 2014. The U.S.-Azerbaijan Open Skies Agreement concluded in April 2016 has led to a further increase in commercial flights between the two countries. AZAL and Silk Way have purchased significant numbers of U.S. made aircraft over the past few years and continue to expand and modernize their fleets.
Simplification of Visa Regime
In order to attract more tourists to Azerbaijan, the government simplified its visa regime, creating ASAN (“Easy”) Visa System to process electronic visas within three days of application for citizens of eligible countries. Additionally, in June 2016, single-entry tourist and transit visa fees were reduced to $20 from $50. In February 2017, a presidential decree to create fast track routes, including adding ASAN payment and visa terminals, for entry to Azerbaijan at border checkpoints from the bordering countries Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey. Other reforms included establishing a Tourism Council chaired by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, opening 15 regional offices of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and appointing tourism agents in 10 countries. In 2018, an independent State Tourism Agency was spun off the Ministry of Culture.
Azerbaijan’s Hospitality Industry
As with other sectors, the hospitality industry in Azerbaijan is dominated by a small number of large holding groups. Several well-known western chains operate in Baku focusing on affluent tourists, business travelers, and large-scale conferences and sporting events. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan estimates that 33.5 percent of all tourist services provided in the country were for business travelers. By contrast, the market for mid-range, two and three star hotels, boutique and bed and breakfast style accommodations, hostels, and entertainment centers are being further developed.
Azerbaijan has focused on event tourism to develop the industry since 2012. It hosted the “Eurovision Song Contest” and “FIFA’s U-17 Women’s World Cup” in 2012. It hosted the first-ever “European Games” in 2016. Moreover, Baku hosted the first of five “Formula One Grand Prix” events at the Baku City Circuit in 2016. Its capital, Baku hosted the “Islamic Solidarity Games” in May 2017. Most recently, 5th World Culture Dialogue Form has hosted in Baku 2019. It has made tremendous investments to build a new “Olympic stadium” and adjacent housing complex for international athletes. Azerbaijan is well-positioned to host large-scale international sporting events and has put forth candidacies to host future “Summer Olympics games”, as well as to host “World Expo 2025”.
Prospects of Joint Ventures
For the further development of its tourism potential new ski facilities have been opened in the Gusar and Gabala regions in the last four years. Package deals combining travel to Azerbaijan with other destinations in the region might be a possibility to increase tourism, particularly after the new Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad to Georgia and Turkey.
State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan
According to the State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as of 2017 there were 563 hotel facilities in the country: 35 of them are state-owned, 515 private, eight foreign-owned, and five joint ventures. The State Statistical Committee reports that gross income of travel agencies and tour operators totaled $41 million in 2017 versus $36.7 million in 2016; hotel revenues in 2017 amounted to $284 million. The number of tourists visiting Azerbaijan increased by 20 percent in 2017 as compared to 2016. Approximately 30 percent of these were from Russia, 20 percent from Georgia, 13 percent from Iran, 11 percent from Turkey, and 4 percent from UAE, with the remainder coming from other countries. Azerbaijan expects to record 20 percent year-on-year growth in visitors from the Arabian Gulf in 2019 as trade and transport links deepen. The number of GCC visitors to Azerbaijan jumped 30 per cent year-on-year in 2018. Even tourists from Pakistan are on the increase. It has become an ideal tour destination among Pakistani doctors, engineers, students and common people alike.
Khinalig: An Ancient Village
Khinalig is the ancient village in Azerbaijan. It is located in Guba city. It has developed its own unique culture and traditions, and even its own language. The village is over 5,000 years old. For centuries this village was cut off from the rest of civilization by the tall mountains and dangerous rocky cliffs. Due to the isolation, the villagers were able to preserve their own unique language, which doesn’t belong to any other language family, as well as their traditions and customs, found nowhere else.
There are about 2,000 people living in the village, divided into 4 families. Each family has its own graveyard and its own patterns for carpets and clothing. The villagers of Khinalig build their houses one on top of the other. In general, they resemble a multi-story house, where the roof of one house is the courtyard for the one built above it. There are 360 stone houses in the village, each of which is about 200-300 years old.
The residents of Khinalig are very religious. There are a lot of holy places not far from the village, such as the graves of saints, caves, and unexplored archaeological sites. Some of them were built as early as the Middle Ages. Dedicated explorers can find the Khydyr Nabi Tomb, Sheikh Shalbuza Mosque, Abu Muslim Mosque (12th century) and the Pirdzhomyard Mosque (1388). The local culture is preserved in the Historical and Ethnographic Museum of Khinalig, where visitors can find items used in traditional life and small exhibits about the history and customs of the local villagers.
With the construction of a new paved road in 2006, local life changed a lot. Tourists started visiting, and locals got a chance to leave the village. They buy goods in Guba, and trade homespun items, food products, and host and feed tourists who want to get to know this unique village. Khinalig became a little less isolated, though it still retains its unique character. In 2007, Khinalig became a state historical, architectural and ethnographic reserve.
Lerik: Unique Museum of Longevity
It is situated on its southern border which has a museum dedicated to centenarians, the only one of its kind. Talysh Mountains with their unique trees, pure water, green forests, rocks and historical monuments, the Emerald of Azerbaijan, and the region of Lerik at the foot of these mountains are no exception.
Five Types of Climate
It has five types of climate depending on geographical location. Leningrad (now Saint-Petersburg) biologists who mounted expeditions to Lerik between 1965 and 1970 described their astonishment at this land of miracles: It has a very strange nature. The weather changes almost every kilometer. The land of centenarians belong to the oldest people on the planet: Mahmud Eyvazov, Shirali Muslumov and Majid Aghayev came from this region and lived through decades and decades. Scientists, who have conducted lengthy research in Lerik, have tried to explain it by the environment, the pure air and water and the rich flora. These ideas have been shared by eminent intellectuals, scientists, poets and writers.
It has plentiful miraculous nature, abundant flora and fauna, climate, water and air.. However, the greatest wealth and source of pride for this region are the sturdy, hardworking centenarians, who live with their love of building and creating and are witnesses to two or three centuries. There were times when there were more than 500 centenarians in the region. Currently there are more than 20 who have passed the century-mark in Lerik.
Baku: City of Fortresses & Modernity
Baku is the city of so many forts and fortresses. By the 11th and 12th centuries, Baku had become a large commercial seaport on the Caspian Sea. For safety reasons, the Shirvanshah dynasty initiated a large-scale building project to strengthen the city’s fortification works. A fortress, protected with three rows of walls, was built around Baku, and also a deep moat was dug. Furthermore, additional defensive structures in a form of flag towers and small fortresses were built on the mountains that surrounded the city. All these towers and palaces made up a common defensive system for the city, which is located on the Absheron Peninsula today.
The beginning of the construction of the towers and castles dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries. These towers include the famous Maiden Tower, Sabail fortress, Ramana fortress, Mardakan fortress and Shikh fortresses. These fortresses were mainly occupied by military posts, which formed the city’s first line of defense in case of attack. In the 11th through 14th centuries, Baku was subject to attacks from the Seljuk Turks, Mongols and Russians. In 1175, the Shirvanshah ruler Akhistan, managed to prevent the occupation of Baku, with the help of the towers and fortresses existed by that time, by the Russians, who had arrived there with 73 ships. These towers, in addition to their defensive function, were used as communications facilities. When enemies were approaching the city, its defenders used to burn oil on the tops of the towers, thus warning the city about the danger.
One of the castles forming the defensive system of Baku was the Bayil Castle, now submerged almost completely under water. The fortress was built opposite the city in the 13th century in the Bayil Bay, but due to the earthquake of 1306 the water level there dramatically increased, and the fortress found itself deep under water. The castle was shaped like an irregular rectangle. It was surrounded by 1.5-m wide walls with 15 towers built along the perimeter. The fortress location was chosen so it could protect Baku from attack from the sea.
The Maiden Tower was also a part of the Baku’s defensive system, though whether this function was its main one, the scholars cannot say. The Maiden Tower is an 8-storey building resembling a cylinder. In the 18th through 19th centuries, the tower was used as a lighthouse.
In the town of Ramana, near Baku, there is another fortress from the 16th century Ramana Fortress. It was built of white stone. The fortress height is 15 m. The Ramana Fortress was built by Shirvanshahs’ order for defensive purposes. According to documentary records, in the Middle Ages, there was an underground way running from the Ramana Fortress to the Maiden Tower.
In a town called Mardakan, also not far from Baku, there is another defensive fortress the Mardakan Fortress, built in the middle of the 14th century by Shirvanshah Akhsitan’s order in honor of a victory over a defeated enemy. The fortress was used as a place for accommodation of a military post and as an observation post. The fortress’ height is 22 m. The Shikh Fortress, or Ishyg Galasi (Light Fortress), is another defensive fortress located in the same village. This 16 meters high fortress was built in the year 1232 as an observation post.
Yanar Bulag: The Land of Fruits & Fire Spring
The coastal Astara region of Azerbaijan is lushly forested and is known especially for its citrus fruits. Rising rapidly behind this narrow fringe, the first phalanx of wooded hills are vaguely evocative of South-East Asia with big slightly sparse tree cover on thin, red soil. It has many folds of forested mountains hiding numerous villages which would make for intriguing horseback exploration. Astara Town offers very little but the Istisu excursion is fun and Archivan`s Yanar Bulag is fascinating.
Yanar Bulag (Fire Spring) is nearby Archivan village. It is an unusual spring which fascinatingly combines two elements, fire and water. The phenomenon starts simply enough. Water comes gurgling from a metal stand-pipe inside a small pavilion, not looking particularly unusual. But when a lighter or another ignition source is touched to the water, the liquid itself will be set ablaze. This unique and entertaining property of the water is due to its uniquely high methane content.
Lankaran: Beauty at its best
Lankaran is located in the south-eastern part of Azerbaijan on the shores of the Caspian Sea. It is one of the brightest and most beautiful cities in the republic. Original architecture and magnificent natural landscapes are the hallmarks of this city. The wonderful climate, the sea and the presence of thermal springs attract a lot of tourists who want to relax and improve their health. And the ancient history and the abundance of attractions do not leave indifferent fans of meaningful pastime.
Subtropical Climate
The subtropical climate of the Lankaran region is ideal for growing citrus crops, rice and grapes. Great attention is paid to the production of tea in Lankaran. As a well-known exporter of this revered worldwide drink, the city is known not only in the territory of the former Soviet Union, but also in many European countries. Therefore, at the entrance to Lankaran tourists are greeted by a huge samovar. And on the territory of Lankaran and neighboring Astara districts there is the Hirkan National Park, known for growing iron trees and populations of the rarest Persian leopard.
Few people know, but a separate perfume is dedicated to the fragrances of the Lankaran forest. After a trip to Lankaran, perfumer from Italy, Maria Candida Gentile, being impressed by the beauty she saw, created a new perfume. The presentation of the Lankaran Forest fragrance was held as part of the Fragranze 2016 niche perfume exhibition in Florence.
At one time, Lankaran was part of the Caucasian Albania state, and in 1743 it became the center of the Talysh Khanate. Most of the region’s population is Talyshs, who have retained their ancient traditions and customs.
Abundance of Historical Sights
In Lankaran, an abundance of historical sights, among which Lankaran Fortress attracts particular attention, or rather its surviving fragments. It was built in the 18th century and was known as one of the most important defensive fortifications in the Talysh Khanate. Its walls made an enormous impression with their large forms and rows of strong teeth. The fortress was surrounded by a medieval moat, as needed, flooded with water. The main objects of the construction were the north and south towers, from which the aimed fire was conducted on the attackers.
Striking Architectural Landmark
The most striking architectural landmark of Lankaran is Mirakhmad Khan’s House, located in the very center. This, practically, the palace was erected in 1913, and became the first three-story building in the city.
Hirkan National Park
Hirkan Park is one of Azerbaijan`s truly unique protected areas. Ninety percent of the park`s is covered by deciduous forests. The region`s subtropical climate makes for a lush green landscape. There are over 150 tree and shrub species, including chestnut oak and ironwood trees, as well as Hyrcanian figs and pears in the lowlands. Oriental beech trees and box trees dominate in the higher elevations.
The Hirkan National Park protects the humid subtropical and humid temperate forests in the area of the Lankaran Lowland and the Talysh Mountains, sheltering many endemic plant and animal species, including the Caucasian leopard.
The Hirkan National Park normally has very high humidity and precipitation throughout the year, averaging from 1,400 mm to 1,600 mm per year in the lowlands to 1,800 mm per year in the mountains. The maximum annual precipitation is the highest precipitation in Azerbaijan. The Hirkan National Park has a humid subtropical climate in the lowlands, an oceanic climate in the middle elevations and a humid continental climate on the mountain peaks. The variety of elevations, the abundant rainfall, and the presence of old growth forests give the park an unusual richness of biota.
Agh Gol National Park
Lake Agh Gol, the second largest lake in Azerbaijan, sits inside the Agh Gol National Park in the Kur-Araz lowlands. The arid landscape creates a nesting spot for migratory birds, while the lake is full of fish. Imagine a blue-green lake surrounded by a band of trees with mountains in the distance.
Agh Gol, situated in the Mil plain of the Kur-Araz lowlands has a semi-desert landscape and is an important overwintering and nesting place for birds. Over 140 species of birds are found in the park, including 89 species of nesting birds (partridge, spoonbill, swan, teal, bustard, etc.). Approximately 30 specimens of charadriiformes and 24 specimens of anseriformers have chosen this reserve home for themselves. Some of the bird species living here such as Francolinus, white-tailed eagle, white pelicans and Dalmatin pelicans are added to the “Red Book”.
Sheki: A Ancient City of Azerbaijan
Sheki is a neat, well-groomed town with recognizable architecture, with roofs lined with red tiles, it looks more like a typical European provincial settlement than an eastern city. Meanwhile, Sheki has an ancient history. The city has preserved many historical and architectural sights, a special place among which is occupied by the inimitable Palace of Sheki khans, with its luxurious openwork windows in the stone citadel. The people of Sheki are very hospitable and cheerful people by nature, and local humor has long become the talk of the town, the city is even the twin city of the famous Bulgarian city of Gabrovo.
Sheki is one of the most ancient cities of Azerbaijan. Archaeological evidence suggests that the city can be considered one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, many finds on its territory are more than 2500 years old. Ancient Greek historians Pliny the Elder (I century AD), Claudius Ptolemy (II century AD), Strabo wrote about Sheki in their writings. There is an assumption that the name of the city dates back to the ethnonym of the Sakas tribe, which penetrated into the territory of Azerbaijan in the 7th century BC. and lived here for several centuries. For a long time the city was also called Nukha.
The city of Sheki is located on the spurs of the Caucasus Mountains. The nature surrounding it is distinguished by exceptional scenic beauty heavily crossed relief and wooded mountains alternate with valleys of bizarrely meandering rivers. The urban area stretches along these rivers, and the mountain landscape serves as a background.
It is interesting that the current Sheki actually rebuilt after the city was destroyed in 1772 by the mudflow of the Kish river. This river still has a restless temper, especially in high season. Old-timers still remember how, in 1986, the turbulent waters of the river literally demolished a massive iron bridge, whose twisted remains still remind of those alarming days.
The new city is picturesquely situated on a large area at the foot of the southern slope of the ridge, adjacent to the spurs of the Caucasus Mountains, on three sides surrounding it. The layout of Sheki is interesting: flowing from east to west.
Today, Sheki is a picturesque array of greenery with houses and architectural structures peering out from behind trees. This originality is determined not only by the terrain, but also by the peculiarities of the layout, organically linked with nature. Almost every house is surrounded by a garden and a fence made of river stone the traditional building and finishing material for these places.
Hallmark of Sheki
The hallmark of Sheki’s unique architecture is the Khan’s Palace, built in 1762 by Huseynkhan, who, in his time free from state concerns, wrote poems under the pseudonym Mushtag. Sheki Khans Palace has its own special original construction techniques. It is enough to point out, for example, that every square meter of shebeke (windows made of small wooden parts with colored glass filling them) consists of 5 thousand parts connected together without the use of nails. Many kinds of applied arts were synthesized in the palace.
The Palace of the Sheki khans was a summer palace-pavilion, and the building that served as the winter palace was probably among the residential buildings grouped in the fortress around the gardens, and did not survive.
The attention of tourists is also attracted by the Sheki Khans’ House, built in the 18th century and carefully restored, which represents a transitional link from the people’s dwellings to palace-type houses. The rectangular 2-storey building retains all the features of Sheki folk dwelling, and at the same time, the wealth of decorative elements, mainly in the interior, approaches the structures of a palace nature. Each floor of the house consists of 3 rooms and two small lobbies. The interiors are richly decorated with colored shebekes of Venetian glass made by the same craftsmen who worked at the Palace of the Sheki Khans.
One of the most ancient architectural monuments of Sheki is the Albanian temple in the village of Kish. The official date of his bookmark is the 1st century of our era, the time when the territory of Azerbaijan was part of Caucasian Albania.
Sheki is an ancient land and every historical epoch left its traces here, which, fortunately, did not disappear irretrievably. Historical monuments and architectural masterpieces ancient fortresses and rich khan palaces, mysterious towers and temples of Caucasian Albania, caravansaries, mosques decorated with lace Arabic script, unique mausoleums constitute the golden fund of the country’s cultural heritage. And Sheki a small, quiet town with red tiled roofs, comfortably located at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, continues to live its own life, delighting numerous tourists with its distinctive culture. And this is symbolic, because being at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, where trade caravans came for many centuries, Sheki became the place of contact of the West and the East.
This town, nestled in the old-growth chestnut forests, is almost a portal to a bygone fairyland. You can hike to the 2,500 years old Chukur Gabala gates still standing at the site of an ancient capital, or swim in the Yeddi Gozel waterfalls in the Ismailli Reserve while listening to the songs of more than 100 species of birds that call this sky-high area home. For a more modern experience, take the four-stage cable car ride to the Tufandag all-seasons recreational complex.
Religious Tourism
The Republic of Azerbaijan is blessed with religious places and shrines of all religions. It has been one of the ideal and busiest destinations for pilgrimages in the world. Tourists use to pay personal visit to these holy shrines in order to seek blessings, happiness and comforts in their lives.
Although Azerbaijan is Muslim and a secular country it has some interesting resources for religious tourism. These are shrine of Zoroastrianism (Ateshgah), Christian heritage of Caucasian Albania, and mosques of Islam. The Zoroastrian religion was entrenched before Islam and Christianity in the territory of Azerbaijan.
The Bibi-Heybat Mosque (Azerbaijani: Bibiheybət məscidi) is a historical mosque in Baku
The shrine of Bibi-Heybat is located in Shikhov region in the west of the bay of Baku, on the way of Baku and Absheron Peninsula to Salian and Talysh which is on hills toward the Caspian Sea. Fatima al-Sughra, the daughter of Imam al-Kazim is buried in this mosque. This place is also called Pir Bibi-Heybat, and local people call it the Fatima al-Zahra Mosque. The mausoleum was built in the time of Safavid dynasty, but it was destroyed when Stalin conquered the region; the burial place was completely demolished. However, after dissolution of the Soviet Union and independence of Azerbaijan, the president of the country ordered to rebuild the shrine. Married people having no kid pay personal visit and pray for a baby which may come true after some time.
Imamzadeh Mausoleum or Goy Imam Mosque
It is located 7 kilometers northward to Ganja. It consists of a complex including walls with entrances, small mosques and funerary monuments.[1] The mausoleum, located inside the mosque, bears the grave of one of the sons of Imam Muhammad al-Baqi.
The construction of the Imamzadeh Mausoleum in the city of Ganja in Azerbaijan was implemented in the 8th century. According to the inscription found inside of the mausoleum, the sons of Mohammad Baghir, who is considered one of the most sacred personalities of Shiite Islam, left their motherland and moved to Azerbaijan and İran in order to escape from the ruling circles of the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750), who carried out the persecution against the representatives of the Prophet of Islam. İmam Ibrahim and Ismail came to the cities of Azerbaijan Barda and Ganja, but here they were killed by their enemies. Mausoleums were erected on the graves of Imam Ismail in Barda, and Imam Ibrahim in Ganja. The inscription is composed of a small marble plaque on the first floor of the Imamzadeh Tomb.
Concluding Remarks
The Republic of Azerbaijan is a beautiful country where splendid nature intermingles with centuries old rich civilization and traditions. Azerbaijan is a fairyland where fairies live in the hearts of tourists as well as locals and has numerous places to explore. It has fascinating places to visit where common people are ever ready to hospitalize you. It is centre of humanity and birth place of ethnic diversity and pioneer of multiculturalism in the world.
Azerbaijan is the largest country in the Caucasus and variously considered part of Europe or Asia. The country lies on the Caspian Sea. It borders Russia and Georgia to the north, Armenia to the west, and Iran in the south. Through the autonomous exclave of Nakhchivan, which lies between Armeniaand Iran, Azerbaijan also shares a short border with Turkey. Its capital, Baku, is famed for its medieval walled Inner City. Within the Inner City lies the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a royal retreat dating to the 15th century, and the centuries-old stone Maiden Tower, which dominates the city skyline.
Azerbaijan is one of the most ancient sites of human civilization. People have been present here at every stage of their historical development. There were developed settlements in Azerbaijan even at the earliest stages of civilization. The policy of “Open Doors” carried out by the Azerbaijan government, as well as the social and economic reformation and democratization of society carried out in the Republic, have allowed many more citizens of independent Azerbaijan to expand the scope of their worldview, and to receive wonderful opportunities to visit foreign countries. Visits of foreign travelers to Azerbaijan are also increasing day by day.
Azerbaijan has great potential for the development of the tourism industry with such fascinating sights as ancient cities, palaces, fortresses, mausoleums, and mosques. Azerbaijan has always been famous for its sources of eternal fire the “atashgehs”. There is a place called Yanardag (blazing mountain) in Absheron and thermal springs in some parts of Nakhichievan, Kelbejar, Masali, Lenkoran, and Babadag provinces.
In Surakhani there is a site of eternal flame. From ancient times, fire worshippers from remote places, and even Indian priests, came to Absheron in search of fire, and found it here. They built large temples here in Surakhani and in Ateshgah. There are more than 6 thousand historical architectural monuments on the territory of Azerbaijan. The natural climatic conditions of Azerbaijan are also unique. It has 9 climate zones exist out of the 11 in the world.
Azerbaijan is blessed with picturesque natural landscapes, monuments of culture and modern tourist resorts. The Khudat-Yalama seacoast, bordered by forests and the seashores of Absheron and Lankaran are fine places for recreation and relaxation. In these places, there are fine sandy beaches with steady water temperatures of 22-26°C for five or more months, which provide for a long swimming season. The most attractive areas for Alpinism and winter sports are Shamakhi and Gusar. Many types of animals and birds are objects of licensed hunting, and in the reserves they are very easy to watch and photograph. In particular, the Gizilagach reserve, where in the winter months more than one million individuals from two hundred species of birds of passage gather, is ideal for this purpose.
In Azerbaijan there are a number of health resorts and spas, creating an opportunity for treatment of many illnesses yielding to natural therapies. Most of the resorts with mineral spas also function as tourist centers. Nakhchievan is especially rich in mineral sources; the only known deposit of medicinal petroleum in the world Naftalan is completely unique.
Baku and the Absheron peninsula Nakhchivan, Guba-Khachmaz, Sheki-Zagatala, and Lankaran-Astara regions; and the historical areas of Shirvan and Ganjabasar are the most attractive for travelers in Azerbaijan. The lovely nature of these places, numerous ancient ruins, wonderful ethnographic variety and the astonishing skills of local craftsmen will leave an unforgettable impression of Azerbaijan upon its guests.
It is land of fire which full of useful energy, color, excitement, comfort and inspirations. It has rich nature, friendly climate, diversified culture, dynamic people, spicy foods and above all humanistic spirits to welcome all people irrespective of origin, race, color, caste, faith, religion or ideology. It is blessed with elements that will create good memories for tourists: rich history, ethnic and religious diversity, interesting cities to explore, delicious food and above all safety in the country.
Tourism in Azerbaijan has been busy for centuries – just look at all the caravanserais that held travelers moving along the Silk Road. Azerbaijan today is a unique combination of the many cultures and empires that have passed through, as well as home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes of the Caucasus. Whether you want to explore the most modern corners of cities or escape into the mountains or beaches, Azerbaijan has something to offer.
Baku is Azerbaijan’s capital and largest city, built around the fortified Icheri-Sheher. Tourists can through the narrow alleys and discover the many sights around every corner, or enjoy the broad promenades and world-class establishments of the more modern parts of the city. Baku is a charming city on par with many other world metropolises. Azerbaijan is an ideal combination of ancient and modern, natural and man-made, minimal and intricate.
Azerbaijan is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, plus a number of other important places that have been considered for inclusion in the World Heritage Sites list. Right in the center of Baku is Icheri-Sheher, the walled city that once housed the entire population of Baku. The other site is Gobustan, home to hundreds of thousands of petroglyphs depicting ancient life. Go beyond the obvious with trips to Sheki, Khinalug, Ateshgah, or to the many fortresses and temples that were staples of life in the region for centuries. Azerbaijan’s rich history can be explored at the many historical destinations across the country. Sheki and Shamakhi were capitals of empires that existed centuries ago, and their former imperial glory lives on in the historical sites and their surroundings.
Azerbaijan is the cultural capital of the region which has culture of Khinalug and the excellent craftsmanship of Sheki. UNESCO has recognized copper making in Lahic, silk scarves, carpet weaving, mugham and tar as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
From the shores of the Caspian Sea to the heights of the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan offers a variety of natural destinations. Summer is a great time to relax by the beach, with a variety of seashore resorts on the Caspian Sea, while winter is the perfect season for a stay at a ski resort in the mountains. There are also national parks that are great for hikes and even longer trips, while picnicking has long been a treasured tradition.
Tourism is commonly recognized as key to development, prosperity and well-being. In the context of Azerbaijan, tourism industry is critical for economic diversification and regional development, as prioritized in Azerbaijan development strategy. The country’s incomparable historical and cultural heritage, as well as expertise in halal hospitality, allowed Azerbaijan to enter the list of the top Muslim holidays destinations. In Azerbaijan, where modernity and intellect meet Islam and modern cultures, Muslim visitors can have an unforgettable experience.
Global Travel & tourism continues as one of the biggest and fastest-growing economic activities of our times. Today, tourism moves over 1.3 billion people across international borders every year. It accounts for 10 percent of global GDP and jobs, and 30 percent of the world’s services’ exports. Last year, international tourist arrivals in Azerbaijan have increased by 7 percent. Tourism’s sustained growth brings immense opportunities for economic welfare and development in many sectors from construction to agriculture and telecommunications. Tourism’s growth goes hand-in-hand with increasing diversification and competition amongst destinations.
Local community benefits and the quality of the visitor experience are huge factors for competitiveness and sustainability. In 2017 Azerbaijan saw international tourist arrivals grow by a huge 20 percent almost 3 million. Tourism and hospitality sector may be the most profitable sphere of the Azerbaijani non-oil sector in 2019, and potential investors may provide funds to this sector.
According to its official figures, as many as 848,400 tourists and stateless persons from 170 countries visited Azerbaijan in January-April 2019, which is 0.1 percent more compared to the same period in 2018, according to the State Border Service of Azerbaijan. Russia accounts for 27.3 percent of the foreigners who arrived in Azerbaijan during the reporting period, while Georgia accounts for 26.8 percent, Turkey 11.1 percent, Iran 8 percent, the UAE 3.8 percent, Ukraine and India 1.8 percent each, Pakistan 1.4 percent, Iraq 1.3 percent, citizens of other countries 16.6 percent, and stateless persons 0.1 percent. Men accounted for 69.5 percent of the visitors, while 30.5 percent were women. Compared to January-April 2018, the number of Egyptian citizens visiting the country increased by 2.2 times, Saudi Arabians 1.9 times, Indians and Turkmens 1.8 times, Chinese 1.6 times, Japanese 37, 1 percent, Canadians 31.8 percent, Pakistanis 28.8 percent, Georgians 22.6 percent, Polish 20.8 percent and South Koreans 20.5 percent.
Meanwhile, the number of tourists from the EU countries increased by 7 percent in the first four months of 2019 and reached 34,200 people, and of those from the Gulf countries decreased by 27.5 percent to 142,900 people. Azerbaijan, the popular destination for many tourists, attracts millions of visitors every year. The beautiful nature of Azerbaijan, hospitality of its people, the country’s capital with its super modern and ancient buildings draws the attention of all tourists visiting this South Caucasian country.
It is noteworthy that 2.8 million tourists from 196 countries arrived in Azerbaijan in 2018, showing a 5.7 percent increase compared to 2017. Last year, Russian, Georgian, Turkish and Iranian citizens made up the largest part of the tourists arriving in the country. In 2018, there was a significant increase in the number of visitors from the Gulf countries.
In recent years, the creation of a diversified tourism infrastructure in Azerbaijan has increased the interest of foreign tourists to the country. There are many opportunities for tourism in our country, including rural, health, environmental, cultural, social, commercial, sport, etc.
Moreover, simplification of the visa regime plays a major role in the development of tourism in Azerbaijan. Currently, citizens of a number of countries get visas right at the Azerbaijani airports, while other tourists can visit the country by getting online tourist visas. The successful holding of international events has also turned Azerbaijan into a country recognizable by everyone in the world, and a country that many foreigners wish to visit as soon as possible.
Azerbaijan confidently moves ahead to expand activities in the tourism sphere. Every year, Azerbaijan’s State Tourism Agency takes part in many international tourism fairs to promote the tourism potential of country.
by 2023, it is planned to increase the incoming tourist flow to Azerbaijan to four million people thanks to the “Grand Prix of Azerbaijan” races of the Formula 1 series which to be held in Baku on 26-28 April 2019 and attracts greater interest rather than previous ones. So, Azerbaijan is among the best countries in the field of tourism, occupying the 39th place among 148 countries in terms of global competitiveness in tourism. The successful holding of such great events has turned Azerbaijan into a country recognizable by everyone in the world, and a country that many foreigners wish to visit as soon as possible.
Moreover, simplification of visa regime also plays a major role in the development of tourism in Azerbaijan. Currently, citizens of a number of countries get visas right at the Azerbaijani airports, while other tourists can visit the country by getting online tourist visas.
Azerbaijan and Pakistan are going to open charter flights. The number of Pakistani tourists visiting Azerbaijan is growing. Thus, in 2018 22,000 tourists from Pakistan visited Azerbaijan and it is expected that their number will increase to 32,000.
The promotion of tourism potential of Azerbaijan, simplification of visa regime for Pakistani citizens and the launch of the ASAN Visa system increased the number of Pakistani tourists to Azerbaijan. The work on the establishment of direct flights between the two countries is currently underway and after completion it is expected that the number of tourists will grow significantly. As many as 17,558 Pakistani tourists came to Azerbaijan in 2017, 3,998 in 2016, 2193 in 2015, and 1,817 tourists in 2014. The number of Pakistani tourists visiting Azerbaijan has increased by more than eight times over the past two years which is indeed a great achievement on part of H.E. Ali Alizada ambassador of Azerbaijan in Islamabad who has been working tirelessly to achieve the dreams of “direct connectivity” between the two countries. He is also working very hard to convince Pakistani businessmen and investors to make investments in Azerbaijan where currently 300 companies and entrepreneurs from Pakistan are working.
