Baku

Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, situated on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. Here are key facts about Baku:

1. Location: Baku is located on the Absheron Peninsula, which extends into the Caspian Sea. It is the largest city in the South Caucasus region.

2. Population: As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Baku has a population of around 2.3 million people.

3. Baku Boulevard: The city features the Baku Boulevard along the Caspian Sea, offering scenic views, recreational areas, and various entertainment options.

4. Flame Towers: One of Baku's modern landmarks is the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers with LED displays that simulate flames. They have become an iconic part of the city's skyline.

5. Heydar Aliyev Center: Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Center is a futuristic building known for its distinctive architecture. It houses a museum and cultural center.

6. Old City (Icherisheher): Baku's Old City, known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features historic architecture, including the Baku Fortress, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and the Maiden Tower.

7. Maiden Tower: The Maiden Tower is a historical tower within the Old City, dating back to the 12th century. It is a symbol of Baku.

8. Fountains Square: Fountains Square, also known as Fountain Square, is a central square in Baku with numerous shops, cafes, and fountains. It is a popular gathering place.

9. Nizami Street: Nizami Street, a bustling pedestrian street in the city center, is known for its shops, boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere.

10. National Flag Square: Baku's National Flag Square is home to one of the world's tallest flagpoles, flying the Azerbaijani national flag. The square offers panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

11. Baku Crystal Hall: The Baku Crystal Hall is an indoor arena that hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012. It is a multipurpose venue for events and concerts.

12. Mud Volcanoes: The vicinity of Baku is known for its mud volcanoes, with the Gobustan region being notable for its unique landscape.

13. Gobustan National Park: Located southwest of Baku, Gobustan is home to ancient rock engravings and petroglyphs that provide insights into prehistoric human activity.

14. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum showcases the art of carpet weaving, an important aspect of Azerbaijani culture.

15. Baku Olympic Stadium: Baku Olympic Stadium is a modern sports venue that hosted events during the 2015 European Games and UEFA Euro 2020.

16. Baku Metro: Baku has a metro system that provides convenient transportation within the city.

17. Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater: This historic theater, constructed in the early 20th century, is known for its classical performances.

18. Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall: The Philharmonic Hall hosts classical music concerts and other cultural events.

19. Baku Jazz Center: Baku has a vibrant cultural scene, including jazz performances at venues like the Baku Jazz Center.

20. Heydar Mosque: The Heydar Mosque, named after Heydar Aliyev, is one of the largest mosques in Azerbaijan, located in Baku.

Baku is a city that blends modern architecture with historical charm, reflecting Azerbaijan's rich cultural heritage and dynamic development. Its strategic location on the Caspian Sea and its role as a cultural and economic hub make it a key city in the South Caucasus region.