Azerbaijan is a state in Asia, in the southeastern part of the Caucasus. The official name of the country is the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Territory of Azerbaijan: The area of \u200b\u200bthe state of the Republic of Azerbaijan is 86,600 km².
Population of Azerbaijan: The total population of Azerbaijan is 9,780,780 people (2015). Men make up 49% of the population of Azerbaijan, women - 51%. The urban population is 51% and the rural population is 49%.
Ethnic groups of Azerbaijan: 90.6% are Azerbaijanis, 2.2% Lezghins, 1.8% Russians, 0.6% Avars, 0.2% Tsakhurs, as well as Ukrainians, Armenians, Udins, Ingiloys, Kryz, Budugs, Khinaligians, Tatars, Meskhetians Turks, Kurds, etc.
Average life expectancy in Azerbaijan: The average life expectancy in Azerbaijan is 72.2 years (men 69.19 years, women 75.54 years).
Capital of Azerbaijan: Baku.
Major cities of Azerbaijan: Baku - 2,181,800 people, Ganja (former Kirovabad) - 278,000 people, Sumgait - 235,000 people.
State language of Azerbaijan: Azerbaijani. Russian and Turkish languages \u200b\u200bare widespread.
Religion in Azerbaijan: The bulk of the population of Azerbaijan professes Islam (mainly Shiite Muslims - 93.4%), various forms of Orthodoxy are professed by the Georgian, Russian and Armenian minorities.
Geographical position of Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan borders in the north with Russia, in the north-west with Georgia, in the west with Armenia, in the south with Iran, in the extreme south-west with Turkey, in the east it is washed by the Caspian Sea.
More than half of the territory of Azerbaijan is occupied by mountains. The mountains belong to the Greater Caucasus system in the north (the Bolshoy Kavkazsky ridges with the Bazarduzu peak, 4480 m, and the Bokovaya with the Shahdag peak, 4250 m) and the Lesser Caucasus in the west and southwest. The high mountains of the Greater Caucasus are characterized by glaciers and turbulent mountain rivers, the middle mountains are strongly dissected by deep gorges. From west to east, the mountains of the Greater Caucasus, at first gradually, and then sharply decrease and are replaced by a system of low ridges. The mountains of the Lesser Caucasus are less high, and consist of numerous ridges and the volcanic Karabakh highlands with cones of extinct volcanoes. In the extreme southeast are the Lankaran Mountains, which consist of three parallel ridges. The main peak of the highest Talysh ridge, the Kemyurkoy, reaches 2477 m. The mountains of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus are separated by the vast Kura-Araks lowland.
To the north-east of the Greater Caucasus is the Kusar Plain. The northwestern and northern part of the Kura-Araks lowland is a system of hills, low ridges and valleys; in the center and in the east there are alluvial plains, near the sea coast - the low delta of the river. Chickens. The low-lying Apsheron Peninsula and the Kura Spit protrude deeply into the Caspian Sea.
The main river of Azerbaijan is the Kura, the largest river in the Caucasus, which crosses the territory of Azerbaijan from northwest to southeast and flows into the Caspian Sea. The main tributary of the Kura is the Araks. Most of the rivers in Azerbaijan belong to the Kura basin. More than 1000 rivers flow through the territory of Azerbaijan, but only 21 of them have a length of more than 100 km.
Administrative divisions of Azerbaijan: Geographically, Azerbaijan is divided into 59 regions, 11 cities and 1 autonomous republic - the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. The autonomy of Nagorno-Karabakh was officially liquidated in 1991. In fact, the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh is not under the control of the central government of Azerbaijan.
State structure of Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan is a presidential republic. The head of state is the president, elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The head of state has been given broad legislative and executive powers. There is a presidential administration apparatus under the president. Legislature - unicameral National Assembly (Milli Majlis), elected for 5 years. Of the 125 MPs, 100 are elected in single-mandate constituencies, and 25 in a proportional system (according to party lists). The right to vote is vested in the citizens of the country from the age of 18. The highest executive body, the cabinet of ministers, is appointed by the president and approved by the Milli Majlis. The head of the cabinet is the prime minister.
Legal proceedings are administered by local courts and by the Supreme Court, which includes the criminal and civil chambers. The Supreme Court is elected by parliament for a five-year term. The Constitutional Court is functioning.
Azerbaijan from the beginning of the 19th century until 1918 was part of the Russian Empire, from 1918 to 1920. was an independent state, from 1922 to 1991. was part of the USSR. On August 30, 1991, the state independence of Azerbaijan was proclaimed (the official date of the establishment of independence is October 18, 1991).
All cities of Azerbaijan
History of Azerbaijan
Life on the territory of Azerbaijan has been in full swing since the 2nd century BC. And we are not talking about a handful of scattered tribes, but about completely independent states like Caucasian Albania. In the VIII century, the Arabs dropped in here and began to plant their own culture and religion among the population.
Since the 11th century, Azerbaijani lands have been conquered and re-conquered by stronger powers - the Seljuk Empire, the Ildegizid State, as well as the descendants of the Tatar-Mongol ruling dynasties. Subsequently, Turkic nomads were also noted here, who played a significant role in the formation of the Azerbaijani people.
In the 16th century, the territories of Transcaucasia became part of the Safavid state, ruled by the Iranian Shah. The empire did not last long and disintegrated in 1722, and then Azerbaijan was split into small khanates, which gradually joined Russia in the 19th century: partly voluntarily, partly during military operations.
After the October Revolution, Azerbaijan tried to secede from the Land of the Soviets by proclaiming itself a democratic republic. However, attempts to gain independence were suppressed, and in 1920 the state became part of the USSR, which it managed to leave only in 1991, after the collapse of the Union. Another important historical milestone came at the end of the 80s. A military conflict broke out in Azerbaijan between the indigenous population and the Armenians, the result of which was the appearance on the political map of the world of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic.
Climate. Best time to travel
Azerbaijan is nine natural zones and gradual transitions from a subtropical climate to a mountain tundra one. So, when planning a tour of the country, drop the hope for the stability of the weather - surprises in the form of temperature changes and precipitation are inevitable. The optimal time for excursions in Azerbaijan is from mid-May to mid-October. Moreover, if the purpose of the trip is acquaintance with the architectural heritage and nothing more, it is more expedient to exclude the summer months from this period. Ideally, it is better to postpone the inspection of historical monuments altogether until September-October, when the scorching heat subsides and walks in the open air cease to be a test of endurance.
Those who have come to Azerbaijan to relax on the Caspian Sea are advised to book a hotel for July-August. These are the hottest months in the local year (the thermometer is kept at +32 ... + 38 ° С), when you can safely splash in the water and improve your diving skills. June in the Republic is also warm, attracting sunbathers and adherents of balneotherapy to the coast. In general, in climatic terms, Azerbaijan is most comfortable in the Caspian zone. In mountainous areas, the weather conditions are no longer as resort ones, and winters are much colder, with strong winds and blizzards.
Population and language barrier
Most of the indigenous population is Muslim, although other religions are not oppressed either. Moreover, Azerbaijan gives the impression of the most loyal and religiously tolerant of all Muslim states. As for interaction with the locals, it is not difficult if the traveler does not go for provocations. So feel free to ask for help from passers-by and check the names of the streets from the schoolchildren you meet along the way - in 9 cases out of 10 you will be politely answered, or even offered to lead you to the desired object.
Well, very persistent hospitality, as well as the desire to show off a little, are mandatory components of the Azerbaijani mentality, which at first lead to slight bewilderment. Expensive gadgets in hand, jewelry with precious stones the size of a medium-sized cobblestone for local residents is not a luxury, but an urgent need to help others prove their own worth.
The state language in the country is Azerbaijani, but in Baku and other large cities, mutual understanding with the population is ensured. The older generation is still nostalgic for Soviet times and willingly chatting in Russian (yes, Azerbaijanis are a terribly talkative people). Advanced youth in the study of the great mighty did not succeed, but they almost always speak in English.
Attractions and entertainment
The first rule of a tourist in Azerbaijan is not to identify the whole country with Baku. The administrative center of the Republic is a cheerful, contrasting city and certainly worthy of a separate excursion. However, real Azerbaijan is still outside the capital - in small villages and mountain villages.
All sights of Azerbaijan
5 things to do in Azerbaijan
- Walk around Old Baku and find the street where the creators of the comedy "The Diamond Arm" filmed the iconic scene at the "Istanbul" pharmacy.
- Listen to the melodies of singing stones in the Gobustan reserve.
- To visit the descendants of the biblical Noah - kyats. Representatives of this ethnic group live in the mountain village of Khanylag, famous for its ascetic life and stone houses hung with satellite dishes.
- Take a selfie in front of the Baku taxis, which are one in one London cabs, and then surprise your friends with photos from an imaginary trip to England.
- Get into the confidence of local housewives and beg for a secret recipe for pies-kutabs, which are the same for Azerbaijanis as pizza for Italians.
Resorts of Azerbaijan
In Azerbaijan, one can count not only on the healing mountain air and sea bathing, but also on medical programs. The main resort of the country is Naftalan. It is here that guests use the famous Azerbaijani oil, or rather its local variety, which has a unique chemical composition and has proven itself as the main component of wraps and baths. According to doctors, the oil substance has a beneficial effect on the nervous, immune and endocrine systems, and also actively fights against skin ailments. At the same time, the main specialization of Naftalan is disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Proof of this is the Museum of Crutches, all the exhibits in which, according to the guides, were left by healed patients.
Another Azerbaijani resort is located in the town of Galaalti, where seven healing springs come to the surface. The composition of the local mineral water is identical to the one for which those who want to get medical treatment go to Truskavets, but with a slight difference: the reserves of healing moisture in the Galaalta deposits will last for several decades, while at the Ukrainian resort some of the springs have already dried up. Treatment in the sanatorium complexes of Galaalty is recommended for people suffering from gastroenterological ailments and urolithiasis. As a visual confirmation - the "honor board" of one of the resort health resorts, where capsules with kidney stones that left the patient's body after drinking Galaalta mineral water are hung.
The second mineral capital of Azerbaijan is Nakhichevan. It is here that you can pacify neglected asthma and taste the local analogues Borjomi and Narzan. Another healing factor of the resort is the Duzdag salt caves. Mysterious stone halls are located underground, on the territory of the therapeutic center of the same name, and are used in the treatment of broncho-pulmonary ailments. Lankaran remains an equally popular resort - the subtropical climate combined with the proximity of the Caspian Sea works wonders, healing as well as oil and mineral water.
Beach vacation
To come to Azerbaijan in the summer and not swim means to deprive yourself of a proper rest, especially since the situation with the beaches here is more than pleasant. If you need soft sand under your feet and a well-developed infrastructure, welcome to the Absheron Peninsula, to the villages adjacent to Baku - Mardakan, Novkhany, Bilgah, Buzovna, Pirshagi and others. The only caveat: during the season, the purity of the water in some locations leaves much to be desired (there is nothing to oil rigs), so it is better to travel around the villages to choose the most acceptable option.
But it is better not to meddle with the once popular beach areas in the Shikhovo, Turkan and Hovsan areas. An audit carried out by the Ministry of Ecology showed that the percentage of harmful substances in local waters exceeds the permissible level. The situation is about the same in Sumgayit, which is famous for twenty fully equipped seashell beaches. In 2019, the coastline of the resort town was included in the blacklist of Azerbaijani ecologists, and it is not known when it will leave it.
Relatively clean and well-maintained beach on the territory of Lankaran. The city beaches have an anti-glamorous black and gray shade due to the high volcanic ash content, but there are not so few people willing to lie on it. The main reason for the popularity of "Gothic" beaches is the healing properties of the sand, where it is highly recommended to relax for holidaymakers with cardiovascular ailments.
An important point: Lankaran is a city where Muslim traditions are strong, like nowhere else in Azerbaijan, so the beaches here are divided into separate zones for women, men and families. Consider this fact when you are going to sunbathe in urban areas, and do not try to break into areas where people of the opposite sex are resting.
Another beach mini-paradise of the country is the resort village of Nabran, built up with tourist centers, and the village ownership is not limited to the clean sea and convenient approaches to it. Close to Nabran are relict forests teeming with various animals. It is also full of marshes and ponds where freshwater turtles can be caught and released again.
Ski resorts
Recently, you can go skiing and snowboarding in Azerbaijan. Ski tourism in the country began to develop in the 2000s (the first complex was opened in 2012), but some heights in this business have already reached. The largest ski resort of the country - "Shahdag" is located about 200 km from Baku. 17 kilometers of trails of all difficulty levels, 12 lifts, 160 artificial snow generators - all this can be found on the territory of the complex. In addition, Shahdag has its own ski school, sports equipment rental shops, hotels, shops and even restaurants. In the summer, when the skis are hidden in the pantry until next season, the resort is redeveloped as a tourist center. So if you are drawn to picturesque places (the complex is located in a conservation area), or just ride horses and ATVs - in "Shahdag" you will be eagerly awaited.
The second ski resort of Azerbaijan called "Tufandag" is still actively expanding and being completed, but everyone is allowed to try their luck on its ski jumps. In total, the complex has 10 slopes, 5 cable cars and enough snow cannons to ensure a decent quality of cover during the season. "Tufandag" is located 4 km from the city of Gabala and is ready to receive and simultaneously accommodate up to 3000 guests.
Azerbaijan cuisine
Meat (it is better not to look for pork in a Muslim country) and seasonal vegetables in various variations - this is, in general terms, a meal of an Azerbaijani loyal to the gastronomic traditions. But vegetarians and other healthy people will have a hard time - Caucasian chefs season with fat tail fat everything that comes into their field of vision, thanks to which the calorie content of national specialties skyrockets.
Along with the already international kebabs, pilaf and dolma, do not ignore the not-so-famous, but therefore no less tasty kutabs (flattened pies with meat and vegetable filling), dushbara (delicious dumplings in beef broth), saj (roast lamb with vegetables, served in a crusty skillet). Soups in the cuisine of Azerbaijan also take place, but they often represent an intermediate option between the first and second courses. Mandatory, if not for eating, then for tasting: khash, okroshka ovduh, bozbash.
The assortment of pastries and desserts is not so outstanding, but if there is an urgent need for simple carbohydrates, baklava, Turkish delight, mutaki and kete cookies, badambura pies plus a couple of desserts of similar composition are at your disposal. In addition, in Azerbaijan you can discover interesting varieties of jams that are rarely found on the Russian table - from white cherries, peaches, walnuts, watermelons, and feijoa. The jam is always washed down with tea, without which not a single meal in the country can do.
There are enough places in Azerbaijan where you can have a good meal or just have a snack. It is better for a poor tourist to entrust digestion to small family restaurants, cozy teahouses, and also fast food stalls. If your travel budget allows you not to count what was spent, you can take a good walk in Chayki or NUR. by Eleven. The menus of both establishments include dishes of national cuisine, diluted with interesting European improvisations. Fans of Mediterranean and Asian food can wander the streets of Baku in search of cafes where guests are treated to risotto, paella and sushi - there are many of them.
Where to stay
Hotels of international chains such as "Hilton" and "Sheraton" in Azerbaijan are found only in Baku. The vast majority of five-star hotels are also located here, prices for a double room in which start from 215 AZN (approximately 8000 RUB). A day of living in the capital "three-ruble note" is about 27-55 AZN, in hostels - from 10 AZN (bed in a dormitory).
In resort towns like Naftalan and Nakhichevan, sanatoriums and spa resorts remain a popular type of accommodation. Depending on the level of provided medical services, the cost of living in them can vary from 48 (full board for one in a small spa hotel) to 255 AZN. By the way, before booking, it is advisable to study the sites of the hotels you like in order to be aware of what additional bonuses are included in the price. So, for example, some of Naftalan's sanatoriums operate on the “all inclusive” system, but in some places you will have to pay extra for medical procedures.
Accommodation on the territory of the ski resorts of Azerbaijan costs a pretty penny, but if you by all means need a hotel within walking distance of the ski slopes, such options can be considered. For example, "Shahdag" hotels accept only those guests who are not sorry to pay 160 AZN for a double room. If the travel route runs mainly through provincial cities, the private sector will be an excellent accommodation option, where you can rent a room or a whole house for a family. For the money it turns out more profitable than a hotel room.
Cellular and Internet
You can apply for a local SIM card if you have a passport. The most popular operators promising the best coverage in Azerbaijan are Azercell, Bakcell and Nar. But keep in mind that Azercell has higher rates, while its competitors always have great deals aimed at the country's guests. However, Azercell has another feature that allows it to remain the most demanded operator in the Republic - an extensive coverage area and high quality communication. Therefore, if trips to the province are coming, it is more advisable to overpay a little for the reliability of the connection. Otherwise, you risk constantly observing the inscription "No network" on the smartphone display.
You can purchase prepaid tariffs for all three in branded communication stores. True, it is better to do this not at the airport or in the tourist areas of Baku, where the cost of a SIM card can double or even triple. It is more convenient to replenish a mobile account through ATMs, terminals, as well as using express payment cards, which are easy to find at the points of sale of the mobile operator.
An alternative to mobile phones are payphones. There are not many of them in Azerbaijan, but on the avenues of big cities, as well as at bus stations, you will surely find the coveted retro apparatus. Payphone calls are paid with special cards, which are sold at supermarket checkouts and in any post office.
Free Wi-Fi in Azerbaijan can be found in city hotels and airports. All access points belonging to cafes, train stations, parks are paid. For this reason, it is better to pay a little extra and buy a local SIM card with an included Internet package, since there are always plenty of such options.
Money
All payments are made in Azerbaijani manats (AZN). 1 AZN is 38.39 RUB (current exchange rate for August 2019). As for currency exchange, it can be done at bank branches and official exchange offices. The main thing to remember: the farther from tourist attractions, train stations and airports the institution is located, the more profitable the course is offered there. Another life hack for those visiting the country for the first time: it is better to come to Azerbaijan not with rubles, but with dollars or at least euros - they are changed at a more pleasant rate.
Finding an ATM in large cities is not a problem. In extreme cases, you can look into any bank and cash out there - the machines issue a choice of manats or dollars. A small supply of cash in a tourist's wallet is an absolute must. Credit cards in Azerbaijan are calculated only in large hotels and shopping centers. Family restaurants, private shops and guesthouses prefer bills.
Tipping in the country is included in the bill and amounts to 5-10% of the order. In some establishments, customers are given the opportunity to independently thank the staff for the service, but in this case, it is not customary to leave less than 10% of the amount in the check. Porters and maids expect a "compliment for work" from tourists in the amount of 5 AZN. Taxi drivers do without tips, but they are often wise with the total amount of the trip, so be extremely careful and agree on payment before getting into the car.
Shopping
Not to say that high shopping in Azerbaijan is absent as such - there are enough fashion boutiques and outlets in Baku. However, the bulk of the tourist mass is bought here not at all "Bulgari" and "Versace", but with authentic local products - carpets, spicy herbs, wine. National items of clothing and accessories are in high demand: pointed slippers a la Little Muk (charyki), jorabs (woolen socks), carpet handbags.
As a gift to the fair half, you can bring products from Azerbaijani silk, ranging from colorful kalagai shawls to vintage clutches. Copper dishes, pear-shaped glasses of armuda, backgammon, home-made linen textiles, souvenir bottles with oil - all this variegated variety can be purchased by taking a tour of the shops and shopping centers of the country. From local yummy, the priority remains black caviar, pomegranate sauce, wine ("Agstafa", "Guzel", "7 beauties"), cognac ("Old Baku", "Babek", "Ganja"), Azerbaijani tea and jam to it as well as ready-made spice mixtures.
The most memorable and emotional shopping is obtained in Baku markets - “Teze Bazar”, “Yashyl”, “Nasimi market”. You can and should bargain, at the same time you will learn more about the product you are interested in: “this is how my grandfather made cheese / baklava / jam” - the most compelling argument among local merchants. If you want to stroll through the shopping centers, in Baku 28 Mall
Stores that support the Tax free system will help to save a little on purchases. To return 18% (this is the amount of VAT in Azerbaijan) of the purchase price, his check must be at least 300 AZN. At the same time, it will not be possible to return VAT on food products, excise goods, pharmaceuticals and auto parts.
It is allowed to export purchases from the territory of Azerbaijan within 90 days. The main thing is to provide unpacked goods at the customs point, your own passport and an invoice issued in the store (if you want to return VAT). After the control has been passed and the corresponding stamp has been received, you can contact the bank branches to receive the due Tax free.
An important point: Before Tax free is credited to your account, 20% will be deducted from its amount - this is the cost of customer service, which includes the services of the operator and the bank.
Safety
Nothing threatens a tourist in Azerbaijan. True, there are several nuances that are best taken into account when walking along city and rural streets. In particular, do not take photos of passers-by without obtaining their permission. Filming of the local subway, government buildings and funiculars is also prohibited. Representatives of the fair half should not forget that they are, though in a very tolerant, but still a Muslim country, where they react instantly to ultramini and open neckline. And of course, no shorts and tops when visiting mosques and mausoleums in Lankaran. It is better for women to cover their heads and wear a closed dress. The religious "dress code" for men is trousers and a shirt.
When communicating with Azerbaijanis, avoid the topic of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, otherwise you risk making serious enemies for yourself. In general, it is better not to talk about Armenia and the Armenians in this country. Local police officers should be treated with extreme caution, keeping your passport ready. Despite the fact that Azerbaijan is the safest of the Transcaucasian countries, it also remains the most corrupt, therefore, do not give the guards a reason to find fault with your behavior. If someone from the local invites you to visit, the invitation should be accepted according to the rules of good form. They don't like refusals here, taking them as a personal offense.
Customs and visa information
For a tourist trip to Azerbaijan, you need to take out insurance. But a visa is not required, provided that the period of stay in the country does not exceed 90 days.
Important: There are a lot of horror stories on the Internet about tourists who went to Armenia, as well as the unrecognized Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, who were then not allowed to enter Azerbaijan. In fact, not everything is so sad. Of course, persons who have a note on visiting both countries in their documents are checked at the border with greater suspicion. However, travel bans are not applied as often as people say. However, this is still not a reason to demonstrate an enthusiastic attitude towards Armenia, and especially towards Nagorno-Karabakh in the presence of Azerbaijani border guards - you risk immediately going to your native land.
The list of goods prohibited for import / export is standard - drugs, pornographic materials, weapons. With purchases from Azerbaijan, they produce without problems, unless it is antiques - you will have to get a special permit for collectible exhibits plus pay tax. In general, it is better to purchase any goods that have artistic value in specialized stores, where a certificate from the Ministry of Culture is issued along with the purchase, exempting the buyer from paying tax. Black caviar, which is so chased by our compatriots in Azerbaijan, can also be exported, but the weight of the delicacy should not exceed 600 g.
Transport
Intercity transport in Azerbaijan is represented by trains, electric trains, buses and minibuses. Buses and trains run strictly according to the schedule, but in the case of minibuses, you have to wait until the runner fills the cabin with passengers. Tourists who book hotels in advance, it is better to immediately clarify the issue with the transfer. Some Azerbaijani hotels send buses and cars for their guests, some do not.
You can move within cities by buses and minibuses that run at intervals of 5-10 minutes. Tickets are purchased from the driver of the vehicle. There is a subway in Baku with three lines, open from 06:00 to midnight. Another option for moving around the city and outside is a taxi. Cars can be caught on the streets or called by phone. True, you will have to come to terms with the fact that all taxi companies have their own rates.
Helpful information: to reduce the bother with buying tickets for public transport in the Azerbaijani capital, buy BakıKart. This is a kind of rechargeable electronic pass, with which you can ride the metro and Iveco buses owned by the Baku Bus company. BakıKart are sold in the metro, as well as in terminals at bus stops.
Rent a Car
It makes sense to rent a car in Azerbaijan when you have to inspect peripheral places and protected areas. If the purpose of travel is the capital of the country, it is better to limit yourself to taxi and public transport services. Taking into account the peculiarities of the national driving (Baku people like to drive around) and the abundance of narrow streets in the old districts, it will be calmer. By the way, the further from Baku, the lower the quality of the road surface, so do not be surprised by pits and potholes. This is a common thing in the provinces.
On the other hand, there are no toll roads in the Republic, and things are not bad with free parking - parking with hourly pay is available only in the capital, as well as traffic jams. Going to get acquainted with the national flavor to remote villages and villages, be prepared to meet pets. Sheep and cow herds moving across the asphalt are common in the countryside. In mountainous areas, a small amount of ice on the roads can also be a surprise.
There are both international and local rental offices in the country. The prices in the first and secondly differ, but, as a rule, insignificantly. On average, you can rent an economy class car for a day for 80 AZN, but the longer the rental period, the lower the rate. There are often favorable offers ranging from 50-60 AZN per day, provided that the vehicle will be operated by the client for a week. Consider the fact that some companies do not rent a car to foreigners for less than two days.
Requirements for tourists who rent a car: age from 23 years old (in some places - from 25 years old), a year of driving experience, as well as having an international license and a passport. Some companies impose restrictions on the maximum age of the driver and do not cooperate with citizens over 75 years old. A prerequisite for renting a car in Azerbaijan is the payment of a refundable deposit, which in reputable companies is blocked on a credit / debit card, and in offices it is easier to collect in cash.
How to get there
Derbent to the Azerbaijani border.
Azerbaijan - an inexpressibly picturesque country with its own unique "zest". Azerbaijan is metaphorically called "the land of fires" because its territory is rich in oil and gas deposits, close to the surface and torches of fire erupting from the ground. The striking natural panoramas of this country abound in contrasting views: here you can simultaneously observe all 4 seasons! Luxurious architectural forms, skyscrapers rising upward, an original modern urban style in a Western manner coexists with old buildings, ancient palaces and fortresses. And at first glance it is difficult to determine whether this is actually an eastern country?
Primitive people settled the territory of modern Azerbaijan more than 1.5 million years ago, which was facilitated by a favorable climate and natural conditions. To this day, in some regions of Azerbaijan, evidence of the stay of ancient people on this territory has been preserved: a Zoroastrian temple Ateshgah, city Shamakhi (remember the Shamakhan queen praised by Pushkin?), Chukhur-Gabala, Sheki and of course the archaeological reserve Gobustan, famous for the huge number of petroglyphs, carved on stones, which are 4-5 thousand years old!
A completely different life is in full swing in the capital of Azerbaijan - the most beautiful Baku, the largest city on Caucasus and the largest port on Caspian Sea... The lively, brightly lit streets are home to souvenir shops and themed shops, luxury restaurants and cozy cafes. Here you can eat deliciously, relax, smoke an incomparable hookah, and plunge into a dance to oriental rhythms. Baku is very interesting to visit in terms of sights and historical places: Baku embankment, which every tourist who gets on it admires; Flag Squarewhose flagpole is the second highest in the world; Old city (Icheri Sheher), scenes from famous Soviet films were filmed on its streets; "Fire Towers" - the tallest buildings in Azerbaijan, resembling 3 flames in their appearance; the most modern cultural Center them. Heydar Aliyev, the design of which became the best in the world in 2014, and many others.
Welcoming and friendly Azerbaijanis are hospitable, open and always ready to help you if necessary. And how incomparable are the national dishes! Moreover, the masterpieces of Azerbaijani cuisine are also beneficial for health - it is well known that the Caucasian peoples are among the long-livers of our planet.
Welcome to "fiery" Azerbaijan, its amazing contrasts will amaze you to the very heart!
Useful information for traveling in Azerbaijan
General information about Azerbaijan.
Location... Azerbaijan is located in the southeast of the Caucasus. It shares borders with Russia, Georgia, Iran, Armenia and Turkey. In the east, the territory of Azerbaijan is washed by the waters of the Caspian Sea. Almost half of the territory of Azerbaijan is mountainous. In the north - the ridge of the Caucasus, in the middle part - the Kura-Arak lowland, in the southeast - the Talysh mountains and the Lankaran lowland. The highest point in the country is Mount Bazarduzu (4466 m). Spain, Greece, Turkey and Korea are located in latitudes similar to Azerbaijan.
Square... 86.6 thousand sq. km. The length of Azerbaijan from north to south is about 400 km, from west to east - about 500 km. The territory of Azerbaijan also includes small islands of the Caspian Sea (Baku and Absheron archipelagos).
Population... About 9.7 million people (2016 data). As of July 1, 2013, the urban population was 53.1% and the rural population was 46.9%. Population density: 112 people / km2. Composition: 91.6% Azerbaijanis, 2% Lezgins, 1.4% Armenians, 1.3% Russians, 1.3% Talysh, less than 1% each Avars, Turks, Tatars, Ukrainians, Kurds, Jews, etc.
Political structure... Azerbaijan is a democratic legal secular unitary republic. Part of the CIS. The system of state power of the Republic of Azerbaijan is based on the principle of separation of powers into legislative (Milli Majlis - National Assembly), executive (President) and judicial (courts of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
Administrative divisions... Geographically, Azerbaijan is divided into 66 regions, 11 cities and 1 autonomous republic - the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic.
Capital... The city of Baku with a population of over 2.1 million inhabitants. Baku is the largest city in the Caucasus, the largest economic, industrial, scientific and technical center Transcaucasia and the largest port on the Caspian Sea.
Official language... Azerbaijani (Turkic language group). Russian is not an official language in Azerbaijan, but is actively used among residents of Baku and other large cities. However, outside the capital, the number of people who know the Russian language dropped significantly after the collapse of the USSR. Young people speak English.
Currency unit... Azerbaijani manat. There are numerous exchange offices in the Republic where you can exchange currency at the current rate. Such points often work around the clock in Baku, major cities and airports. In addition, money can be exchanged at banks and some hotels.
Religions... According to the Constitution, Azerbaijan is a secular state. Approximately 99.2% of the country's population is Muslim: about 85% are Shiite Muslims, about 15% are Sunni Muslims. Orthodoxy is poorly spread in Azerbaijan, there are 6 Orthodox churches in the country, 3 of which are in Baku. Jewish communities are considered active and influential.
Standard time zone... UTC / GMT +4 hours.
Electricity... The voltage in the electric networks of Azerbaijan is 220/240 volts, the current frequency is 50 Hz. Standard female double plug (grounded).
Climate in Azerbaijan.
Best time to visit Azerbaijan - the period from April to June and September to October. The territory of Azerbaijan is interesting because it combines 9 climatic zones out of 11 existing in the world, from subtropics to high alpine meadows.
There are quite a large number of solar days. The temperature regime is formed depending on the characteristics of the incoming air flows, the diversity of the relief and the degree of remoteness from the Caspian Sea. The average January temperature ranges from -10 ° C in the highlands to +3 ° C in the lowlands, in July - from +5 ° C to + 27 ° C, respectively. The maximum temperature in summer reaches + 45 ° C, and in winter the temperature in mountainous areas drops to -40 ° C at night.
Strong winds from the north are characteristic, mainly in autumn. The amount of atmospheric precipitation varies from 200 mm per year in the foothills of the Caucasus to 1200-1700 mm per year in the Lankaran lowland.
| Average temperature indicators in Baku | ||||||
| Temp-ra | January | February | March | April | May | June |
| Max | 7˚ | 6˚ | ten | sixteen | 22˚ | 27˚ |
| Min | 2˚ | 2˚ | 4 | nine | fifteen | 20 |
| Temp-ra | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Max | 31˚ | thirty | 26˚ | 20 | fourteen | ten |
| Min | 22˚ | 23˚ | nineteen | fourteen | nine | five |
How to dress in Azerbaijan.
When choosing a set of clothes for a trip to Azerbaijan, one should take into account the peculiarities of the climate depending on the season. For trips from May to September, it is better to give preference to light summer clothes made of cotton fabrics, and in winter you cannot do without insulated jackets and raincoats. In the summertime, be sure to have sunscreen and a hat with you. During the excursions, the most comfortable shoes, including sneakers or trainers, will come in handy, especially when visiting rocky areas.
There are no strict rules when choosing clothes in Azerbaijan, especially in large cities. However, you should not wear provocative clothes: women should give up tight silhouettes, miniskirts and deep necklines, and we recommend that men exclude shorts and sleeveless T-shirts from their wardrobe.
The locals themselves tend to dress in a business-like manner; women prefer elegant style, impeccable makeup and high heels.
When visiting religious places, be sure to wear modest closed clothes and have a scarf or scarf with you, and when entering a house to the local residents, you must take off your shoes.
Azerbaijan cuisine.
The national cuisine of Azerbaijan is famous for the abundance of exquisite and unique-tasting dishes: meat, fish, vegetable, dairy and flour delicacies, brought to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices.
In Azerbaijan, bread is of paramount importance in the diet, which is treated with great respect. For example, if a piece of bread falls to the floor, you must certainly pick it up, kiss it and ask for forgiveness. The bread is baked on a slightly convex iron sheet saj in tandoor, intended for baking churek and lavash. It is popular to cook in spring and autumn gutab - thin crescent-shaped pies made of unleavened dough, stuffed with meat, herbs, cottage cheese, pumpkin, etc.
A special variety is characteristic of meat dishes, of which there are a great many in Azerbaijani cuisine. Widespread basturma (cured beef tenderloin) and kebab, as well as thick lamb soups - piti and bozbash... Popular also kelem dolmasy - chopped lamb wrapped in cabbage leaves mixed with rice and spices; yarpag dolmasy - lamb, eggplant and tomatoes wrapped in grape leaves, and lula kebab - finely chopped lamb, seasoned with onions and aromatic spices. Sajem also called a meat dish made from pieces of lamb in a vegetable platter.
In Azerbaijan, rice dishes are highly respected, especially pilaf, which in the "land of fires" has about 50 variations. The favorite and most characteristic poultry dish is considered chygartma... As a rule, after lunch (especially after pilaf) they serve dovgu from sour milk and herbs.
Azerbaijani cuisine is famous for its sweets, unsurpassed in taste characteristics, before which no heart, even the most indifferent to all sweet hearts, can resist: nogul, alarm, shekerbura, gata, baklava, kozinaki, halva, turkish Delight, jellied figs and sherbet (water sweetened with honey). A significant place in the daily meals of Azerbaijanis is tea, which not only accompany the process of eating, but also precede it. First, they serve tea, after which they offer to taste the second courses. For tea, the table is covered with sweet dishes: Baku baklava, jam from figs, dogwood, cherries, white cherries, walnuts and watermelons.
The cost of food in Azerbaijan.
The traditional tour program includes accommodation in hotels with breakfast. For your convenience, we can reserve places in restaurants. In case you prefer to do it yourself, we provide approximate prices, which may vary slightly in different regions.
Visa and registration.
Entry to Azerbaijan is carried out by overseas passport. For citizens of Russia and some CIS countries for up to 90 days, visa-free regime of entry to Azerbaijan. You can find out more about the conditions for obtaining a visa to Azerbaijan, the list of required documents, processing time and tariffs of consular fees.
Please note that even if a tourist has an Azerbaijani visa, he may be denied entry to Azerbaijan if his passport contains a note about visiting Nagorno-Karabakh, the occupied territory of Azerbaijan.
During your stay in Azerbaijan, you must have an identity document or a copy of it with a visa to enter the country (for citizens of countries with a visa regime).
All foreign citizens staying in Azerbaijan for more than 10 days must go through the procedure within 9 days from the date of arrival registration at the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan. To do this, you must personally or by e-mail provide the State Migration Service with a completed registration form, a copy of your passport and a copy of your visa (for citizens of countries with a visa regime). Hotels provide assistance in this procedure to their guests, but tourists staying in private apartments or hotels without a license must go through the registration themselves. Registration is absolutely free, but the lack of registration can lead to a fine of 300-400 manats.
Customs regulations of Azerbaijan.
To enter Azerbaijan, you must have a foreign passport with you, and it is also recommended to fill in customs declaration indicating the exact amount of cash. The declaration must be signed and stamped by a customs officer and kept until departure from Azerbaijan.
Import of foreign currency not limited, subject to the completion of the customs declaration. If you are bringing in less than US $ 1,000 or less in another currency, it is not necessary to fill out a customs declaration. Export of foreign currency allowed within the amount brought to Azerbaijan in accordance with the customs declaration.
Up to 1.5 liters of spirits and up to 2 liters of wine (for persons over 16) can be imported into Azerbaijan. To take out antiques and carpets from Azerbaijan, you need to have a special permit from the official services. It is allowed to take out up to 125 gr. caviar, 3 packs of cigarettes and enough medicine for your own needs.
The currency of Azerbaijan.
National currency of Azerbaijan - Azerbaijani manat (AZN). In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 manats, as well as coins of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50 qepiks. 1 manat is equal to 100 qepiks. You can exchange currency 
in banks, hotels and numerous exchange offices. Exchange offices often work around the clock (in Baku, major cities and airports). When exchanging money in excess of $ 500, proof of identity is required. The National Bank rate may differ from the rate of private banks. To check the real exchange rate at the time of the trip, we recommend that you refer to the resource of the International Bank of Azerbaijan.
ATMs are available only in large cities of Azerbaijan. In the center of Baku you can find them at every step. Even the smallest regional center has at least one ATM. Banks in Baku work from 9: 00-9: 30 to 17:00. On public holidays and weekends, banks and their branches do not work in hotels, therefore, currency exchange is possible only at the “Republic” bank on duty.
Credit Cards Master Card or Visa in Azerbaijan can be used in boutiques, expensive restaurants and large hotels. Credit cards are not accepted in some grocery stores, cafes, hotels and boarding houses. Using credit cards in the provinces is almost impossible.
Photographing in Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan is replete with captivating views and mesmerizing panoramas that cannot be left unimported. In this country, it is allowed to conduct ordinary tourist photography and video filming. The exception is metro, airports, bus stations, oil refineries, factories and other protected objects that are prohibited for photography. Photographing charges may apply.
Tipping in Azerbaijan.
In many large restaurants in Baku, the service charge is indicated on the menu, usually 5-10% of the bill. If there is no mention of this, then 10% can be added to the invoice amount (sometimes in advance, this will speed up the service). At the same time, some cafes reserve the right for their customers to decide whether to tip or not. If you really liked how you were served, it would be appropriate to thank the waiter 10% of the amount indicated on the invoice.
Depending on the amount of luggage, you can leave 5-10 manats for a porter at the airport or hotel. Tipping is not accepted in a taxi, you should negotiate the fare in advance. Please note that taxi drivers usually do not accept currency.
Remember the opportunity to bargain, especially in markets and private stores - you can easily bring down the price by 2 times!
Souvenirs of Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan is famous for its inimitable art folk crafts... You will definitely not rack your brains over what to bring home with you from your journey through this bright and hospitable land. The decision will come to you by itself, as 
only you will drop by the souvenir shops. From this sea of \u200b\u200bstrange things, without any doubt, you will find something that will appeal to your soul. The most important souvenirs of Azerbaijan are considered carpets, as well as unique Azerbaijani carpet bags, carpet coasters for teapots and cups. Valuable old carpets cannot be exported from the country, but it is quite possible to get a brand new carpet with a pattern of extraordinary beauty. You can find out more about this from your guide before making a purchase.
Pear-shaped glasses of "armuda" (crystal and painted with colored patterns), in which the tea remains hot for a long time, as well as white cherry jam. This unusual treat for your favorite sweet tooth can be bought in stores in tightly sealed cans, which guarantees the long-term preservation of the treat.
You can add a "zest" to your cuisine by bringing an original tablecloth from buta - the national Azerbaijani pattern, as well as copper dishes... The tablecloths are made of dense fabric with gold embroidery, they look elegant, practical and easy to wash. Copper is used in Azerbaijan to produce wine jugs, plates with embossing, vases and samovars, which are used not only as a decoration item, but also for their intended purpose.
The souvenir market of Azerbaijan is also replete with jewelry, ceramics, wooden carvings (pay attention to handmade backgammon), items of national costume, products from local silk, painted items using the batik technique and, of course, wines.
Among this ocean of various souvenirs, there is a whole sea of \u200b\u200bpleasant gifts for children of all ages. Be prepared for the fact that the children in the souvenir shops will want to buy absolutely everything! Well, bring along a spare suitcase for souvenirs.
National holidays in Azerbaijan.
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Public Holidays:
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Religious holidays with variable dates: |
State symbols of Azerbaijan: flag, coat of arms and anthem.
consists of three horizontal equal-sized stripes of blue, red and green colors. In the middle of the red stripe on both sides of the flag, there is a white crescent moon and an eight-pointed star. The aspect ratio of the flag of the Republic of Azerbaijan is 1: 2. The blue color reflects the Turkic origin of the Azerbaijani people. The red color symbolizes the orientation towards building a modern society and the development of democracy. Green is the color of Islam. The Azerbaijani tricolor is a symbol of the Turkic national culture, modern democratic society and Muslim civilization.
The crescent moon on the flag symbolizes Islam as well as the Turkic peoples. The eight-pointed star personifies 8 branches of the Turkic-speaking peoples and 8 letters of the name "Azerbaijan" in the Arabic alphabet. There is a version according to which the eight-pointed star means 8 traditional peoples living in Azerbaijan.
Coat of arms of Azerbaijan represents an oriental shield against the background of an arc woven of green oak branches and yellow ears of wheat. The shield symbolizes the military power of the state and heroism, the branches of the oak - the glory and strength, the antiquity of the state, and the ears - fertility and abundance. In the center of the coat of arms on the shield, against the background of the colors of the flag of Azerbaijan, there is a white eight-pointed star, in the heart of which a red fire is burning, symbolizing the "land of fires" - Azerbaijan. Fire in heraldry means progress, and this symbol also reminds of the fire worship of Azerbaijanis in ancient times and the traditions associated with the worship of fire (Novruz holiday). The state emblem of Azerbaijan embodies the independence of the Azerbaijan state.
Anthem of Azerbaijan was adopted on May 27, 1992 after the restoration of Azerbaijan's independence. Words by Ahmed Javad, music by Uzeyir Hajibeyov.
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Original text: Azərbaycan! Azərbaycan! Minlərlə can qurban oldu, Sən olasan gülüstan, Namusunu hifz etməyə, Şanlı Vətən! Şanlı Vətən! |
Translating to Russian language: Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan! Thousands of us who fell in battle Let the gardens bloom, yours! Glory, glory to the proud destiny Oh bright land, cherished land, |
Telephone codes in Azerbaijan.
International code of Azerbaijan: +994 (8-10 994)
Telephone codes of city lines of large cities of Azerbaijan.
Leading mobile operators in Azerbaijan:
| Azercell Telecom GSM standard International code: +994 050/051 www.azercell.com |
Bakcell GSM and UMTS standard International code: +994 055 www.bakcell.com |
Nar Mobile (Azerfon) GSM standard International code: +994 070/077 www.nar.az |
Foreign embassies and consulates in Azerbaijan.
There are 51 embassies and consulates of various countries of the world in Baku.
Embassies and consulates of Azerbaijan abroad.
Azerbaijan has 60 diplomatic missions in Europe and Asia, as well as in Canada and North Africa.
Reference services of Azerbaijan.
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Information service of Azerbaijan "119" |
Reference for Baku |
Bus station information |
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Airport Information |
Information railway station |
The capital of the state is Baku. The country is considered secular. The state is located in Western Asia. The regions of Azerbaijan are inhabited by over 9 million people. (for 2013). The area of \u200b\u200bthe country's territory is 86 thousand square meters. km. The official language of the state is Azerbaijani. The country is multi-confessional and multi-ethnic. Most of the population professes Islam, a smaller part - Christianity and Judaism. Every citizen of Azerbaijan has a biometric passport since September 1, 2013. It is used for movement within the country and travel abroad. The monetary unit is the Azerbaijani manat (1 AZN is about 42 Russian rubles).
Holidays of Azerbaijan
Officially, the country celebrates:
- New Year (Jan 1).
- International Women's Day (8 March).
- Novruz Bayramy (21.03).
The holidays of Azerbaijan also include the following days:
- Victory (May 9).
- Republic (28.05).
- Armed Forces (June 26).
- Independence (October 18).
- State flag (November 9).
- Constitution (November 12).
- National Revival (November 17).
- Solidarity of Azerbaijanis around the world (December 31).
The president
He acts as the head of state. The president is elected by popular vote. The length of office is 5 years. The powers of the President include the appointment of government officials. If, in the conditions of hostilities, it is not possible to hold elections, the term of office continues until their completion. The decision on this is made by the Constitutional Court at the request of a state body, whose competence includes ensuring the conduct of elections.
Features of Azerbaijan's policy
The highest representative body is the National Unicameral Assembly - Milli Mejlis. The laws of Azerbaijan are adopted by 125 MPs. The representative body is elected by universal suffrage. The term of office is 5 years. The first elections were held in 1955. There are more than 30 parties and movements in the country. Unions are considered key:
- "New Azerbaijan".
- Musavat.
- Democratic Party.
- "Popular Front".
- Liberal Party.
- Social Democratic Movement.
National economic complex
The Republic of Azerbaijan is an industrial-agrarian country. Industry is well developed in the state. The country's agriculture is diversified. The key place in the national economic complex is occupied by the gas and oil production, chemical, mining, machine-building industries, non-ferrous metallurgy. The food industries are well developed: tea, tobacco, canning, winemaking. Large volumes of production are noted in light industry (cotton, ginning, woolen, silk, carpet weaving). The economy of Azerbaijan is considered the leading one in terms of growth rates among the period from 2003 to 2008. The country's GDP increased 2.6 times, and the poverty rate decreased from 45 to 11%. In 2006, GDP increased by 36.6%. continues to grow continuously since 1996. Over the past 10 years, it has added an average of 13.6% every year.
Geographical position
Washed by the Caspian Sea. On land, the country is adjacent to Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Iran. Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic is an exclave of Azerbaijan - in the north-east it borders with Armenia, in the south-west - with Iran, in the north-west - with Turkey.
Relief
More than half of the state's territory is occupied by mountains. Their northern part is included in the Bolshoi system, while the western and southwestern ones are part of the Lesser Caucasus. There are glaciers in the highlands. The stormy rivers of Azerbaijan also flow here. In the middle mountains, there are deep gorges. The ridges of the Greater Caucasus from west to east, at first gradually, then sharply decrease. They are replaced by low ridges. In the Lesser Caucasus, the mountains are not very high. They include numerous ridges and the Karabakh Highlands with extinct volcanoes. The extreme southeast is occupied by the Lankaran Mountains. They consist of 3 parallel ridges. Talysh ridge is considered the highest. Its main peak, Kemryukei, reaches 2477 m.
The Kura-Araks lowland runs between the mountains of the Lesser and Greater Caucasus. Its northern and northwestern parts are represented by a system of hills, valleys and low ridges. In the east and in the center there are alluvial plains. The low Kura delta is located near the sea coast. In the north-east direction from the Greater Caucasus lies the Kusar plain. The Caspian Sea includes the Kura Spit and the Absheron Peninsula. The main water artery of the country is the river. Kura. It crosses the Republic from the northwest to the southeast, flowing into the Caspian Sea. The main tributary is the Araks. Most of the country's rivers belong to the Kura basin. In total, there are about a thousand streams on the territory, but only 21 have a length of more than one hundred kilometers.
History
The Republic of Azerbaijan was formed during the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Ayaz Mutalibov was the first president. At the end of August 1991, the country's Supreme Soviet adopted a declaration. In accordance with it, the Republic of Azerbaijan restored its independence. Following the declaration, a constitutional act was adopted. It determined the foundations of the economic, political and state structure of Azerbaijan. In June 1992, Ayaz Mutalibov was replaced. At that time in Azerbaijan, he was the leader of the Popular Front. Yagub Mammadov and Isa Gambar also acted as temporary acting heads of the country. Both were at one time in Azerbaijan prime ministers.
New head of the country
During the military confrontation, there were a number of setbacks due to the incompetence of the Popular Front. All this caused a crisis of power. On June 4, 1993, the rebellion of Suret Huseynov began in Ganja. To prevent the outbreak of a civil war, Heydar Aliyev was invited to Baku. At that time, he lived in Nakhichevan. The power of the head of the Republic was transferred to Heydar Aliyev. During the events, a group of Talysh officers under the leadership of Colonel Gummatov declared autonomy in Lankaran. Heydar Aliyev did not recognize her, and on August 23 this uprising was suppressed.
Territorial disputes
At the turn of 1991-1992. there have been some territorial changes. In particular, the Artsvashen exclave came under the control of the Republic of Azerbaijan. At the same time, there were non-sovereign regions in it, which began to belong to Armenia. In particular, such regions of Azerbaijan as Upper Askipara, Bakhurdaly, Kyarki passed to it.
Ceasefire agreement
It was signed with the mediation of the CIS countries in May 1994. During the war, Armenians were ousted by Azerbaijanis from several regions. Previously, the latter constituted the majority in these territories. Mainly, the NKR army and the Armenian forces supporting it regained control over some regions located outside the borders of the areas of Nagorno-Karabakh declared in 1991, in which previously mainly Azerbaijanis lived. These actions in 1993 were regarded by the UN Security Council as an occupation. After a while, the NKR authorities, which continued to maintain control over these regions, included them in their administrative-territorial structure.
"Contract of the century"
He was imprisoned in 1994, on September 20, in the Gulistan palace. This contract has become one of the largest agreements. The contract provided for the share distribution of products obtained from the Chirag, Azeri and Guneshli deep-water fields. This agreement was one of the largest in terms of hydrocarbon reserves and the amount of proposed investments. The contract was 400 pages long and was executed in 4 languages. The agreement involved 13 companies from 8 countries. Preliminary calculations showed that the estimated oil reserves at first amounted to 511 million tons. But later, appraisal drilling was done, and according to updated information, the presence of 730 million tons of raw materials was established. In this regard, the number of investments was increased to $ 11.5 billion. Under the contract, 80% of the total net profit was due to Azerbaijan, and 20% to investors. Since the beginning of the implementation of the agreement, a significant change has occurred in the national economic complex of the country, a huge amount of work has been launched. In 1995, under the primary oil production project, in accordance with international standards, restoration work was carried out on the Chigrak-1 platform. To drill wells with greater inclination, the upper module was modernized and re-equipped. The new type of drilling rig made it possible to drill horizontally to the well layers. A large volume of oil began to flow from the most obliquely drilled channels. Since 1997, production began at the Chirag field.
Present time
Azerbaijan today is a fairly developed country economically. In 2003, Heydar Aliyev died. As president, he was replaced by his son Ilham. In 2010, 2 villages of the Magaramkent region of Dagestan with 600 Lezgins, citizens of the Russian Federation, were transferred to the Khachmass region of Azerbaijan. In addition, the river flow was divided. Samur. In May 2013, 3 pasture areas of the Dokuzparinsky district of Dagestan were also transferred to Azerbaijan.
sights
The largest accumulation of rock carvings in the CIS countries, Kobystan, was discovered 70 km south of Baku. There are also more than 4 thousand unique sites, fortresses, caves and burial grounds. All of them are more than 10 thousand years old. Monuments present on the territory constitute a historical and cultural reserve. The village of Surakhani lies 30 km north-east of Baku. There is a temple complex "Ateshgah" in it. The original construction of the monument dates back to the 2nd century. BC e. There are fortresses on everything. They were built by the Shirvan shahs. Castles in Mardakan, the sunken ruins of the Bail castle, the Tuba-Shahi mosque, various fortifications in Buzovna, Shuvelan, Kishly, Sabunchi, Amirajan, Mashtagi, Kala, on the island. Pirallahi and others. The city of Shabran is located in the north-east of Azerbaijan. It was part of the Derbent defensive system in the Middle Ages. The capital of the ancient Cuban Khanate, Cuba, is in the same direction.
One of the most interesting and ancient cities of Azerbaijan is Shemakha. It is located 130 km west of the capital of the country. The city of Sheki is 380 km away from the border with Georgia. Archaeological evidence indicates that it may be one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus. In the suburb of Sheki, there are a large number of historical and cultural monuments. These include, for example, the Kyumbazi towers in Kutkashen, the fortresses of Sumug, Gelesen-Geresen, Kish, the tower and temple of Orta-Zeizit, the Ilisu mosque, the mausoleum in Babaratma, etc. The region itself is amazingly beautiful. It is intricately dotted with narrow and deep valleys with a huge number of springs, waterfalls, cleanest rivers, mineral springs. All this splendor is surrounded by alpine meadows and dense forests. The city of Lankaran was previously the capital of the Talysh Khanate. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with Iran.
To the north, 100 km away, is one of the most beautiful medieval towns of Hanege. The walls of the fortress, a mosque, the tomb of Pir Hussein and other structures have survived to this day. Near the confluence of the river. Chickens in the sea is the old town of Neftechala. It contains the Goltuk fortress, the ruins of fortifications, the Piratavan sanctuary, and the Khilli mosque. Archaeologists continue to find new historical sites to the northwest of the city. In particular, the city of Orenkala, the mounds of Garatepe, Gyzyltepe, Goshatepe, Mukhurtepe and others were discovered. Fortified towers, mausoleums, castles, monasteries of the Middle Ages are located along the border with.
On the Caspian coast there are numerous nature reserves, fishing and resort towns. Areas at the mouth of the river. Chickens are considered traditional sturgeon fishing grounds. The ridges of the Talysh Mountains run along the border with Iran. This area is considered the most exotic in the country. In the subtropical zone there are many representatives of the Hyrcanian flora. This area is known as one of the best resorts in Azerbaijan. Another of the oldest cities is Kabala. It is considered the religious and political center of Caucasian Albania. In Arab sources, he is known as the Khazar. The mosque, the mausoleums of Mansur and Badreddin, the castles of Sary-Tepe and Ajinne-Tepe have survived to this day. The city of Nakhichevan is also ancient. To the south is the city of Ordubad. It has been known since the 12th century. Here are the Dilber and Juma mosques, the khan's courtyard, madrasahs, as well as a huge number of medieval buildings, which are combined into a state historical architectural reserve.
- a state in the Transcaucasian region in the west of Asia. In the north it borders with Russia, in the north-west - with Georgia, in the south - with Iran, in the west - with Armenia. In the east it is washed by the waters of the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan owns the Nakhichevan region, separated from the republic by the territory of Armenia.
The name of the country comes from the Persian "azar" - "fire", abadagan - "gathering".
Official name: The Republic of Azerbaijan
Capital:
The area of \u200b\u200bthe land: 86.6 thousand sq. km
Total population: 9 million people
Administrative division: Azerbaijan is divided into 61 regions, and it includes the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic and de jure Nagorno-Karabakh.
Form of government: Parliamentary republic.
Head of State: President elected for 5 years.
Population composition: 90% are Azerbaijanis, 3.2% are Dagestanis, 2.5% are Russians, 2.3% are Armenians. Lezgins, Kurds, Tatars, Georgians, Ukrainians and Avars also live.
Official language: Azerbaijani. also many speak Russian.
Religion: 93.4% are Shiite Muslims and Orthodox Christians.
Internet domain: .az
Mains voltage: ~ 220 V, 50 Hz
Country dialing code: +994
Country barcode: 476
Climate
Most of Azerbaijan is located in the subtropical zone. Several types of climate are distinguished within the country, from dry and humid subtropical (Lankaran) to mountain tundra (highlands of the Greater Caucasus). Average annual temperatures vary from 15 ° C in the lowlands to 0 ° C in the mountains. Average July temperatures range from 26 ° C in the plains to 5 ° C in the highlands, and average January temperatures range from 3 ° C to –10 ° C, respectively. Summers are dry.
Precipitation is unevenly distributed: 200-300 mm per year on the plains (less than 200 mm in the Baku region), 300-900 mm in the foothills, 900-1400 mm in the highlands of the Greater Caucasus, up to 1700 mm in the Lenkoran lowland. In Lankaran, maximum precipitation occurs in winter, in mountains and foothills - in April - September.
Geography
State in the southeastern part of the Caucasus. It borders in the north-west with Georgia, in the north - with Russia, in the south - with Iran and Turkey, in the south-west - with Armenia. In the east it is washed by the Caspian Sea (the total length of the coastline is about 800 km.). The country includes a number of islands (Zhiloy, Bulla, Nargin, Wolf, etc.) and archipelagos (Baku and Apsheron) in the Caspian Sea. The total area of \u200b\u200bthe country is 86.6 thousand square meters. km. The capital is Baku.
The relief of the Azerbaijan Republic is very diverse. Mainly two forms of relief prevail here: lowlands and highlands.
About 60% of the territory of Azerbaijan is mountainous. The main geomorphological units of the republic - the Greater Caucasus, the Lesser Caucasus (together with the Karabakh plateau) and the Talysh mountains cover the Kura-Araz lowland from the north, west and southeast.
The average height of the republic is up to 400 meters. The amplitude of land heights ranges from - 26, 5 m (Caspian lowland) below ocean level to 4466 m absolute height (Bazarduzu peak). This means that it becomes clear that on the territory of the republic the difference in height is about 4500 meters.
The southeastern part of the Greater Caucasus belongs to Azerbaijan. There are two mountain ranges here: with the Bazarduzu peak (4466 meters) Glavny or watershed, with the Shahdag peak (4243 meters) Bolshoy or Bokova. To the southwest, the mountain ranges are gradually decreasing by 1000 - 700 meters. The main Caucasian ridge is surrounded by foothills: in the north-west there are flat meadows, in the south-east - Gobustan, in the south-west - Alazan-Khaftaran, in the north-east - the Gusar sloping plain.
The mountains are mainly formed from deposits of rocks of the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, which are relatively less prone to denudation. The foothill areas are characterized by badlands (steppes of Jeyranchol, Ajynour) and mud volcanoes (Gobustan, Absheron). The Gusar plain and the Alazan-Khaftaran valley are formed from a thick layer of crushed stone deposits of the fourth period.
The Lesser Caucasus covers the southwestern and western parts of the republic, has a relatively small upland, consists of a number of ridges and meadows, is a mountainous territory with a complex structure. The main mountain ranges are Murovdag, Shahdag and Zangezur. The Karabakh plateau, starting from the south of Murovdag to the Araz River, is located on the arched cones of extinct volcanoes and lava of the fourth period. The Lesser Caucasus is formed from volcanic and deposited rocks of the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Flora and fauna
Vegetable world
There are more than 4100 species in the flora of Azerbaijan (9% of them are endemics, including Eldar pine, Hyrkan boxwood, Lankaran acacia, Caspian lotus, some types of astragalus, etc.).
The dry lowlands are covered with semi-desert and desert vegetation (dominated by wormwood and saltwort), as well as ephemeral subtropical vegetation. In some places there are salt marshes.
High plains and arid foothills are occupied by wormwood-bearded steppes, shrubs, steppe wormwood semideserts.
The southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, some areas of the Lesser Caucasus, as well as the Talysh mountains at altitudes from 600 to 1800 m are covered with vast forests of oak, hornbeam, beech, chestnut, acacia, ash. Tugai forests, alder forests and alder-lapin forests grow in humid lowlands. Subalpine meadows are widespread in the highlands. The highest peaks are located in the alpine nival belt.
Animal world
The fauna of Azerbaijan includes about 12 thousand species, including 623 species of vertebrates (more than 90 mammals, about 350 species of birds, more than 40 species of reptiles, more than 80 species of fish, the rest are cyclostomes and amphibians). Reptiles, hares, wolves, foxes, gazelles are widespread on the plains.
Wild boars, roe deer, badgers, jackals are found in the valleys of the Kura and Araks. The mountains are inhabited by red deer, Dagestan tur, chamois, bezoar goat, roe deer, bear, lynx, forest cat, mouflon and leopard are found. Animals such as sika deer, saiga, raccoon dog, American raccoon, nutria, skunk have been introduced.
The world of birds (pheasants, partridges, black grouse, etc.), especially waterfowl, is very diverse. Many of them come to winter (ducks, geese, swans, herons, pelicans, flamingos, cormorants, etc.).
In the Caspian Sea, there are many valuable commercial fish (salmon, stellate sturgeon, beluga, herring, kutum, roach, asp, lamprey, sprat, etc.), and among mammals - the Caspian seal.
sights
- State Flag Square
- Heydar Aliyev Center
- Azerbaijan carpet museum
- Gobustan reserve
- Maiden's Tower in Baku
- Ateshgah temple
Banks and currency
Since January 1, 2006, new "denominated manats" have been put into circulation in Azerbaijan - banknotes with denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 manats, as well as metal coins with denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 and 50 qepiks. One "denominated manat" is equal to 5 thousand old manats.
In Baku, banks work from 9.00-9.30 to 17.30 (some banks continue their work until late in the evening, and many exchange offices work around the clock), on the periphery, the opening hours are usually from 9.30 to 17.00-17.30 (some banks work with clients only until lunch).
You can exchange money at banks, hotels and numerous exchange offices (located throughout the capital and other major cities, as well as at airports). Some shops have their own exchange offices.
Credit cards are accepted for payment mainly only in large supermarkets in the capital, in some hotels and banks. Using credit cards in the provinces is almost impossible. Traveller's checks are accepted in a limited way only in large hotels and banks, but gradually an increasing number of institutions are switching to their service.
Useful information for tourists
The best time to travel to Azerbaijan is during the warm and dry months from April to October. It should be borne in mind that in the second half of summer the air temperature can rise to + 38 ° С. In winter, the Azerbaijani sky is covered with clouds, and the mountains are plunged into thick fog.
In the central part of Baku, shops are open from 9.00 to late evening, in the periphery, as a rule, until 19.00-20.00.
It is customary for taxi drivers and waiters to leave about 10% of the total bill for tea. Bargaining is perfectly acceptable in the markets.
