8 Must-Known Facts about Azerbaijan’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Azerbaijan is an exquisite country located in the South Caucasus region on the border between Europe and Asia, and the country’s cultural heritage reflects the centuries of the mix of various civilizations. It has a rich history and diverse culture and can therefore be regarded as an attractive destination for visitors interested in history, art, architecture and food. No matter if you are a history lover, a gourmand, or a traveller, Azerbaijan has something to surprise you.

Azerbaijan has emerged as a preferred destination for people who are planning their tour from Dubai and there are specialised tour packages which covers all the cultural tours in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is a unique country with Persian, Turkish, Russian and Caucasian roots and the atmosphere in the country is rather inspiring. There are so many great things about this country, so many magnificent places to visit and incredible things to see, starting with the difference of centuries from the ruins of the ancient cities to ultra-modern architecture.

Azerbaijan is not only an opportunity to observe the beautiful places, but also an opportunity to become a witness of the ancient traditions. For centuries the Azerbaijani people have created masterpieces in various fields of art: from carpet weaving and ceramic making to music and dancing, from the historical drama in Karabakh to the soulful Mugham. When you are thinking of Azerbaijan tour packages from Dubai, you will be enthralled with the country’s colourful and diverse culture of the old and new world.

Below are eight facts that should be useful to help improve your cultural literacy when traveling in this interesting country.

1. A Blend of Eastern and Western Tradition

Cultural background of Azerbaijan has always been influenced by both the Western and Eastern cultures. Its art, architecture, food, and even the way of living are inspired by Persian, Turkish, Russian and Caucasian cultures. This diverse mix of people brings out a cultural feel that is quite interesting to travelers from all parts of the world. Baku is the perfect example of how the modern buildings are constructed alongside the ancient structures.

2. Carpet Making: A Historical Perspective

An ancient craft of carpet weaving is one of the most valuable cultural heritage of Azerbaijan that has been developed for thousands of years. Carpets woven by Azerbaijan are famous for their designs and bright colours. These are antiquities which tell the history of the country and are therefore regarded as national treasures. If you are in Baku it is recommendable to visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum to get more information on this special art.

3. Festivals Celebrated All The Year Round

Azerbaijan hosts many cultural heritage festivals that represent the rich musical and dancing performance and traditions of Azerbaijan. Among them one of the most famous is the Novruz Festival – the holiday devoted to the Persian New Year and the coming of spring. This is a colourful event with many performances, delicious food, and fun festivities. For the people planning their Azerbaijan tour packages from Dubai, they can get the real feel of the festival if they plan their tour during this time.

4. A Rich Culinary Heritage

Azerbaijani cuisine is as rich as its culture and it is however influenced by Middle East, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. The food of the country includes plov, a rice dish with saffron and meat, dolma that is grape leaves stuffed with meat and vegetables, kebabs, and other types of meat. All the gourmets will also appreciate the taste and the choice of the Azerbaijani cuisine. If you want to taste the true Baku flavour, you should try the local cuisine in the food bazaars.

5. Architectural Wonders

The architectural history of Azerbaijan is a very interesting mix of Islamic, Persian and Soviet styles. Many architectural marvels are located in the country, for example the Flame Towers in Baku are modern landmarks of the country. But, of course, there is the historical Icherisheher (Old City) in Baku, which has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visiting the country’s old mosques, palaces and towers is a great way to travelling for history lovers.

6. Mugham

Mugham is a special kind of Azeri music which is inherited from generation to generation. With its passionate and touching tunes, Mugham is an important part of the Azerbaijani people’s religious and cultural practices. This specific type of music has only recently been given the status of Intangible Cultural heritage by UNESCO. To get the feel of this beauty, you should try and catch a live Mugham performance during your Azerbaijan holiday packages from Dubai.

7. The Land of Fire

Azerbaijan is called the “Land of Fire” because of the natural source of gas and fire-worshiping people living there from time immemorial. The Surakhani Ateshgah Fire Temple is one of the brightest symbols of this fiery culture. Tourists can be informed about the Zoroastrianism as a part of the history of Azerbaijan and its geographical characteristics. For those interested in this peculiar aspect of the Azerbaijani ethnography, a trip to the temple is out of the question.

8. A Country of Timeless Culture and Contemporary Progress

But though Azerbaijan has kept up its time-honored customs, it is a nation that is not afraid of the future. Baku is especially noteworthy, as it is a modern city of the future with magnificent architecture, unique museums, and vibrant nightlife. Old and new go hand in hand to make Azerbaijan an exciting place to visit, which has something for every traveler.

Conclusion

Visiting Azerbaijan is an opportunity to get an unforgettable cultural heritage experience due to the combination of ancient and modern elements. Whether you are walking through the ancient streets of Baku, tasting dishes of Azerbaijani cuisine, or listening to Mugham music, you will not run out of exciting emotions. Azerbaijan is a country that has beautiful sceneries, rich history, and an inviting people, which makes it a country that one should visit.

Thus, Azerbaijan tour packages are a perfect chance for visitors from Dubai to plunge into the culture of the country. Whether it is a weekend break or a long vacation, Azerbaijan will make sure that you do not leave the country without having memorable experiences and respect for the country’s culture. Start planning your trip today and find out what a wonderful country Azerbaijan is!