The state of Azerbaijan is located between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains and has a total area of just over 86 square kilometers. The special thing about the country is not only the considerable oil reserves, but above all the different climate zones, which not only provide varied landscapes, but also create habitats for over 18,000 animal species and breathtaking flora. Of these, more than 100 different mammal species are native to Azerbaijan, such as the gazelle, which is also a protected species, bears, wolves, wild boars and even seals. In total, over 360 different bird species are also represented in Azerbaijan, including flamingos and pelicans.
Baku – the city of burning towers
If you have chosen Azerbaijan as your travel destination, you should definitely visit the country’s capital Baku . In addition to tradition and history, the city also offers numerous other entertainment options.
Particularly interesting is a walk through the historic old town, which is still largely surrounded by a wall and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. In addition to the Maiden’s Tower, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of Baku’s most important landmarks, you will find the Shirwan Shah Palace and the Fountain Square, where numerous shows, festivals and events take place.
Another landmark of Baku and at the same time currently the tallest buildings in the city, are the three flame towers, which not only immediately catch the eye due to their height, but also form a huge contrast to the many historical buildings and thus immediately attract attention. In the evening, the flames are lit up in a colourful and colourful way, casting a fascinating shimmer on the buildings and streets in front of the flame towers.
Very close to Baku is the mountain called Yanar Dag and is a true natural phenomenon, as it has been burning for over 1,000 years. Natural gas rises through natural and very high pressure and ignites many small fires on the ground, some of which climb up the rock faces, some of them with a height of three meters.
To relax, take a boat tour on the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world.
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Qobustan – an extraordinary national park
The national park has a size of almost 50 square kilometers and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Visitors can’t help but be amazed, because some things to discover can only be found in Qobustan worldwide. In caves and rock walls there are over 6,000 petroglyphs carved into the stone, some of which are said to be more than 10,000 years old. Most of the drawings depict animals and people, but also pictures of hunting, boats with warriors and battle scenes.
Also very interesting is the music stone, which is also located in the national park and is called Gaval Dash. A smaller stone is used to hit the Gaval Dash and thus triggers fascinating sounds. Oil, gas and the climate are responsible for the formation of natural stone.
The mud volcanoes are another highlight of Qobustan and attract numerous visitors every day who do not want to miss this impressive and fun natural spectacle. There are only about 700 mud volcanoes worldwide, of which more than 300 are located around Qobustan alone. Natural gas, which rises from the ground or from the volcano, transforms the mud into sometimes huge bubbles, which then burst with a funny sound. Every 15 to 20 years, one of these volcanoes erupts and a huge mass of mud spreads throughout the area.
Also very close to Qobustan is a natural gas pond, where the gas bubbles and bubbles in all places, as well as an oil pond, a large and oily waterhole.
Naftalan – the oil baths of Azerbaijan
If you want to do something good for yourself and your body, Naftalan is the place to be. The city is located in the west of Azerbaijan and is known for its numerous facilities where you can bathe in pure petroleum as well as for the large healing center where various skin diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis are treated.
Since the 12th century, people from different countries have been coming to Naftalan to benefit from the soothing and healing oil baths. Marco Polo was also enthusiastic about the oil baths and publicly reported on his experiences. The crude oil is also said to have a relaxing, cleansing and disinfecting effect on the skin
