Cities
 

Baku city

Baku is the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan. It is a large scientific, cultural and industrial center. Ancient foundations, a large area and population all make Baku one of the oldest and largest cities in the East.

People have lived and founded their settlements in Baku city and the Absheron peninsula since ancient times. This was motivated by continuous migrations from north to south and from west to east due to the physical and geographical conditions, a favorable location in the center of trade routes that crossed Silk Road, climatic conditions, production of petroleum fuel in ancient times and the availability of large power resources.

Baku was first mentioned in the Book of the Dead by the Egyptian Pharaoh Minesan in 3,500 BC. The ancient age of Baku is also evidenced by stone carvings dating back to 12,000 years ago and archeological excavations. Another important piece of evidence is a stone carving by August Guy Octavio, who reflected the stationing of a military camp under the rule of the Roman emperors Pompey and Lucius near Baku (40 km to the south) for the purposes of seizing the southern Caucasus in the 1st century BC. This means that Baku is nearly 5,500 years old.

Baku was one of the main cities in the Shirvanshakhs State in the 12th century, in the Sefevids State in the 14th century, in the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, and became the capital of the Baku khanate in the 17th century.

Baku is situated on the shore of the Caspian Sea in the south of the Absheron peninsula. It covers an area of 2,200 square km and has a population of 2 million. Nearly 500,000 refugees from Armenia as well as IDPs from the occupied territories, currently reside in Baku.

Baku has 11 administrative districts and 5 settlements.

 

Agdam city

The area center, Agdam city is one of the largest Garabag plain, having been arisen in I millennium of B.C. "Agdam" as per ancient Turk Glossary envisages - "small fortress". In far back in the past Turky speaking tribes, being habituated in those areas, in purposes of their protection and safety, erected preferentially small fortresses. Since passed times the name of the city had taken another meaning. Garabag khan Panahali in the first half of XVIII century ordered to build himself dwelling complex - imaret made of white rock. That imaret during long period had served as original orienting thing for habitants of near villages. Agdam - light, being illuminated with sunny rays, white house.
 

Agstafa city

The area is allocated on the west of Azerbaijan in foothills of Big Caucasus, on the border bounded with Georgia and Armenia. Climate in the area is moderate. Along the territory of the area, there is following main Kura river of Azerbaijan, inflow of Kura – Agstafa River and some of other few river. There is exist Jandargel lake. On Kura riverbank, it is allocated Garayazi’s wild life sanctuary, having been founded out with aim of tugay forests to be safeguarded. On the territory of the area there were stored numerous archeological and historical memorials. Among them as follows: having been registered into the list of memorials of the global meaning, the settlement of bronze century Teyretepe in village Ashagi Geychali and monument made of bronze – beginning of Iron Age – the settlement Choban-dashi in Dagkesemen village. Monuments like such kinds are available in other places as well. In surroundings of Kechasker, the settlement of the Stone Age Molla Nagi Tapasi, the settlement of bronze Iron Ages. Durnatepe, Beyuktepe, Shish Guzey Piri and medieval memorial Haja Dag Piri. Nearby the city Agstafa – settlement s of bronze and iron Ages – Jantepe, Yastitep. As well as it is possible to remind Tatli, Yukhari Geychali, Hasansu, Ashagi Goychali villages. Findings having been found out whilst making archeological diggings: jugs, necklaces, bowels, vases, separate articles of home are being kept in local Museum of Local Lore, history and economy.
 

Astara city

Astara district is allocated at the southern – east of the country, on the border with Iran. That is one of the beautiful areas of the republic. Part of the area territory is occupied by Talish Mountains, part’s – bottoms. Astarachay and Tengerud rivers takes its outset higher in mountains and are fallen down onto Caspian Sea. Forests covered 37000 hectares of the territory.
Picturesque Talish Mountains always charmed way farer by its unrepeatable beauty and freshness. French painter, Alberto Pepin, having been stayed at those land in 1886 in conjunction with his fellowman-traveler Gabriel Bonvalut had engraved in his piece of work, Talish mountains, marvelous landscape, life and homehold, culture, folkways and customs, garment of local habitants. Talish Mountains are covered with thick wood, main part of which constitute relict trees such as oak, demiragaj (ferrous tree). Rigid wood of the ferrous tree is used for manufacturing of textile machine tools, dugout, and details for textile industry. Here, there are widen such as wild quince, mushmula, May-flower. Black-berry, silky acacia with pink colors, eternal green butcher’s broom; among of family of lianas: sarsaparilla, ivy. Fauna of Talish forests is luxuriant and diverse. Therein wolfs lynxes, deer, roes, porcupines and other animals are being habituated. In the district on the seashore, there are many splendid beaches, and water is pure and transparent.
 

Balaken city

Balaken district – the most northwestern district in the Republic. In the west and in the south the district is bounded with Georgia. “Balaken” word –for word envisages “sall village”. Approximately half of the area territory lies in mountain locality, another part – at plain. In the district, there are many mountain rivers, lake spread out nerby Katekh Mountain. For the northern, mountain part of the area specifically to have cold climate, for plains – moderate. mid yearly level of humidity comprise 41%. Mid monthly temperature +13 C. In the northern part of the region there is woodland, there grow such trees as grab, alber, oak, chestnut, acacia, out of brushwood-strawberry, dog-rose and etc. There are more than 30 types of medicinal herds. Balaken area occupies two third territory of the Zagatala National Park.
 

Bilasuvar city

Bilasuvar district being allocated in the west is bounded with Iran. Climate in the region is hot, dry. District is known as cotton area. Except for cotton in economy of the district, privileged place are occupied with cereal livestock.

There are different origin versions of Bilasuvar name to exist. By one of versions, this is a place of fighting of two joined tribes “bilyars” and “suvars” against the enemy, by fusion of which it was formed the name of terrain. By another one’s – the name has had origin taken from word combination “burda su var”, which means, “here is water”.

 

Jelilabad city

The district and its administrative center, since 1967 Jalilabad city have been carrying name of outstanding Azerbaijan writer Jalil Mammedguluzadeh. First, city was called Khasilli, and after it was called Astrakhan-bazar. In the west, the area is bounded with Iran. It is specific for Jalilabad to have lower mountain and terrain. Mid temperature in winter makes +3°C, in summer +27°C.
 

Dashkesan city

Dashkesan area is allocated at northeastern slopes of Small Caucasus and being the center of ore mining industry of then republic. Climate in the area is changed in winter ranged from –5°C till -20°C; in summer from +20°C till +35°C. Pure air, greenery abundant, rich animal world being outspreaded alongside mountain bed of Murovdag of woody massive, make attract here in summer times a lot of nature amateurs, who used to arrive with their families from around regions and capital of the Republic for spending recreation times here. In villages of Zagali, Zivlen outspreaded at artificial lakes of Khoshbulag and Goy-Gol, artificial of fishing might spend their time. By not a big popularity it is used Eylag Khishbulag with its alpine grassland and cooled rills.
 

Shabran city

Sinking in the green city with the archaic name of Shabran is situated at the foot of the nameless hill. Its citizens were breeding the camels, were trading with them in old times. Shabran was famous for its fairs, which were gathering citizens of other cities and villages. Cattle, birds, honey, butter, cheese, carpets, wool, ironware etc. were sold in the fairs. Caravan could make a halt here for a while, sell weak and famished camels, hire cameleers and then continue their ways in those old years.
 

Ganja city

Ganja is the second city of Azerbaijan by scale – memorial of the ancient culture, industrial center of the western Azerbaijan. The city is allocated at Ganja-Gazakh terrain, on both Ganjachay riverbanks. This city, having been plaid enormous part in the history of Azerbaijan, was allocated on crossing of caravan ways, where travelers stayed, and alien scientists enjoyed with their conversations. Having leafs over pages of abundant story, in each line we meet traces of Ancient City, we hear his voice and feel its breath.
There do exist different points of view on the history of ganja to be formed. One of them refers the foundation of the city to the period of B.C., others – to the beginning of medieval centuries. One of witnesses of the age of Ganja we may consider Mausoleum of Jomard Gasab lived in period of Ali ibn Abu Talib caliph (656-661) governing and being differed by his fair and honesty. In times when population of the city confessed idolatry, he secretly had accepted Mohammed trust.
 

Gedebey city

Gadabey district is allocated at middle and high mountain slopes of the Small Caucasus. The most highest tops - Goshabulag mountains (3549 m) and Gojadag (3317 m). At high mountain the climate is like mountain tundra, in surrounding of mountains - dry hot summer. Temperature of July is ranged from +10 C to +20 C, of January - from -2 C to -10 C.
On the district territory there is allocated the well-known wildlife sanctuary "Gizilcha" and 4 natural monuments - forest massive Govdu, Godakdara, Gamish and Shamlig. In "Kechi darasi" ravine there is fascinate waterfall, Kechi-kechi rills, Jarga, Juyur, Ayi. There are good conditions intended for fishery on Shamkir River. There are available as well as sources of mineral water - Jaldash, Gizilja Nazran, Mor-mor. Woods, mountains, ravines of the district are abundant by animal and greened world. There are good conditions intended for fishery on Shamkir River. Around of Galakend village there is fishery yard. Memorials of culture are allocated on the territory of Gadabey, which are part of culture having been entered into history of Azerbaijan under name Gadabey-Khojali. Here you might be encountered with Cycpoles structures of the end of bronze period of time, Boyuk-gala forstress, towers of Galakend-galasi (XVI century), Giz-galasi (another name Namerd - gala, IX century), arched bridge of XIX century. It was found out, being famous under name "Gedabey buried treasure", ancient jugs with jewelry, silver coins, domestic ornaments, collars, luxuries. Coins of shakh Takhmasib's governing (1524-1576) were in use in Ganja, Tebriz, Shirvan, Ardebil.
 

Goygol city

Goygol district is allocated at the west of the Republic to the south of Ganja in agricultural region. There are forests, gardens, mountains and seven splendid lakes. The most highest sport in the area is Gamish mountain (3724 m) allocated at the edge of Murovdag. Climate in the area is moderate – hot. Via the territory of the area, there are flowing Gushgara, Ganjachay Rivers. Here many birds are nested. These are ideal places for making hunting and fisheries.
In summer amateurs of nature used to arrive here, lodged apartment from local habitants and make exciting excursions and hiking. Due to that fact villages of Mikhailovka, Yeni Zod, Togana had converted into like tourist centers.
 

Hajygabul city

Hajigabul district is allocated on southeast Kura-Araz plain. District center – Hajigabul city. Its history is started from IX century. “Hajigabul” word envisages “Let Lord take your pray”. Hajigabul was allocated in a way leading to Mecca and Medina, places of pilgrimage of Muislims. Long way of prayers could not take without rules, for which those places were very convenient.
In XV century on place of existed Hajigabul city veside similar named lake it was erected caravanserai (palace) by Shakh Abbas. Durring governing times of Shirvanshakh dynasty it was constructed Makhmudabad city here. Through the city, it was passed The Great Silk Way. From here, caravans were traveled towards Persian Bay. On Kharami Mountain to northwest direction from Hajigabul city in association with employees of Institute of Archeology and Ethnography it was discovered cyclic structure with inscription thereon of petrographies. In the result investigations having been carried out it was cleared out that age of the structure constitutes nearly 5 thousand years. Around structure are rocks with picture of men and fantastic animals, which scientists relate to eneolith and bronzed period.
 

Khachmaz city

Region is situated to the northeast of Azerbaijan and occupies major part of Samur - Devechi lowland. Khachmaz district in the north bounds with Russia. Arterial highway and railway Baku-Moscow passes the territory of the region. 20800 ha of the territories of the region are covered with the forests, 8 rivers run it; there are three artificial lakes. Climate is soft; there are sources of thermal and spring waters. Herbal greens such as dog-rose, bindweed, St. John's wort, blooming sally, balm etc are widely distributed in the district's flora. There are good conditions for hunting and fishing in the district. Gulalan preserve in the territory of the district.
 

Ismayilli city

Having allocated on the southern mountain slopes of Big Caucasus, surrounded with forests and mountains, drowning in greens, the Ismayilli district is one of the most beautiful areas of Azerbaijan. Relief - par excellence is mountain. The most highest spot of the district - Babadag Mountain (3629 m). square of forests comprise 66799 hectares.
Nature of the region - mountain rivers, forest massive, rock, natural and artificial lakes, waterfalls, abundant animal and foliage world make good impression on each man having been stayed here.
Among nine climatic zones being existed in Azerbaijan, three of them are presented in Ismayilli district. Climate in plain is hot and moderate, in mountains - cold. mid temperature of January - 0,5 C. mid temperature of July +23 C. mid quantity of precipitation - 584 mm.Alongside the territory of the area, there are rivers of Girdiman, Ag-okh, and Goychay running thereon. There are waterfalls available: in Galajig village, at a height 25 m; in Burovdal village at a height 50 m; in Mudrusa village at a height of 25m. by natural pearls of the area are three natural lakes, allocated not far from each other in height of 3400-3500 m, beneath of Babadag Mountain, and two artificial lakes beside Kurdmashi and Ashigbairamli villages. Those lakes present good possibilities for fishing's amateurs.
 

Kelbajar city

Kelbajar district is allocated at Small Caucasus, in the western side of the Republic. Then area center - Kelbajar city. Name of the city in translation means "high locality", "high passage". That mountain area is known by its medicinal high debit mineral sources. Here it is allocated Istisu resort region. Istisu in translation means "hot water". Kelbajar rills are situated at Terterchay riverbanks at height of 2000-2400 meters. 31 sources exist here. They are, being by its chemical composition, similar to mineral waters in Karlovi Vari.
 

Kurdamir city

Kyurdamir district is allocated at Shirvan plain and spreading out alongside the left Kura riverbank. Administrative center of the district - Kyurdamir city. Climate in the area is subtropical, summer happens hot.
On the territory of the district, there are inhabited animals, like wolf, fox, jackal, wild boar, among birds there met like pheasant, turaj, geese, ducks etc. Kyurdamir district is considered homeland of the well-known sort of grape "Shirvanshahi".In village of Mollakend on Kura riverbank, in 25 km from district center there "Shefget" sanatorium is allocated, operating on the base of radon water taken from hot source, beating from underground in area of Jarli. Sanatorium at the same time is capable to accommodate till 50 men. For services of recreated people, here it was constructed swimming pool.
In Kyurdamir district there are exist richest traditions of ancient people's handicraft - carpet weaving. From ancient times there are well known local carpets "Shilyan", receiving its name from similar village.
 

Gakh city

Gakh district is situated in the northern – west side of Azerbaijan and being bounded with Georgia. Alongside the border, there are running Kumruk, Gashgachay, and Ayrichay Rivers. By luxury of mountains is lake and waterfalls. Climate on the south of the area is subtropical, in the center – hot moderate, in half it is humid subtropical, in the highest mountain atop – cold. The most highest temperature in winter – on mountaintops - 45 C. On the territory of the area there is allocated Ilisu national park. In mountain woods there are habituated wolves, mountain goats, wild cats, wolfs, boars, jackals. In the area of Ganig-Airichay valley, there are splendid places for hunting amateurs and fishing. The most picturesque places being existed in the area are in the distance of 12-20 km of the center.
Administrative center of Gakh district – small Gakh city being situated at altitude more than 500 meters above sea level on nasty Kurmukhchay River beneath woody mountains of the southern slope of the Big Caucasus. The name of Gakh was taken in translation that envisages “fortress”. In 6 km to northweatern side from Gakh, there is available Agchay village – picturesque village among fruit orchards and maiden forest. More impressive is high mountain Ilisu village (former capital of Sultanat) having been allocated at height of 1400-1600 m over the sea level in 12 km to the northest from Gakh city. The village is surrounded by sulfur mineral sources possessing by healthcare properties.
 

Gazakh city

Gazakh district is situated on the west of Azerbaijan. Along the territory of the area, there were are flowing rivers like Kura, Chogaz, Agstafachay, and Kramchay. Temperature in January ranged between 0 C till – 5 C, in July – from 20 C till +30 C. From beneath of the mountain there is starting plain, being covered with alpine grasslands. That eylag Altuntakh is (Golden throne). Behind that one there is blue ravine Inja (gracious), cutting through mountain chain. At the rear of Inja’s ravine there is mountain Garagoyunlu getting rise over thereof. Alongside rivers there are outspreaded tugay woods.
From history of the area, it is known that in VIII century General Mervan ibn Muhammed founded settlement, which called “Kasal”. Among Arabian sources of that period, the Gasak-Gazak is known as huge inhabited point.
 

Gebele city

Main sightseeing of Gabala district is ancient Kabala, having been reminded in written sources of the 1st century (Pliney and others). It existed more than 1800 years, out of them 600 years it had been capital of Albania Caucasian. Ruins of the ancient town are in 15 km from regional center, allocated on the territory between Garachay and Jourluchay rivers.
In Gabala district there are planted tobacco, barley, wheat; mulberry filature to being ranched. Administrative center of the area – Gabala town being situated on the right side of Demiraparanchay bank River. In clear weather from the town, it is possible to contemplate the highest top of Azerbaijan – Bazarduzu Mountain. Alongside the area territory, Tikanlichay, Gumchay, Demiraparanchay and Vendemchay rivers and others flow thereon.
In surroundings of Gabala being enriched with nut and chestnut boscages, there are many sources of mineral waters and rills with pure key water. By bright sightseeing of the area is chestnut grove, allocated on mountain slopes at a height of 1000 m. In spring, that grove presents beautiful eyeful scene. Mid age of each tree exceeds 500 years. Some of them are inserted into the list of trees being under custodial by government.
 

Gusar city

Gusar district is located in the southeast of Azerbaijan and bounds with Dagestan. Administrative center of the district is a city of Gusar. The city is at the distance of 35 km to the railway station of Khudat. The name of "Gusar" origins from the tribe of "khisar". This is a land of mountains and valleys. The highest peak of Azerbaijan is in the territory of this region - Bazarduzu mountain (4466 m). The district is noted for its rich flora. 20% of the territory is covered with the forests. Deciduous trees are widely distributed here. Such valuable species, as oak, beech, hornbeam etc. grow here. Tugay forests are along the rivers. Such plants as sumah, mushmula, hawthorn, dog-rose, gooseberry bushes, forests grapes are popular here. Animals of the region are represented as follows: bear, wolf, boar, mountainous goat, birds - eagle, owl etc. State reserve at the area of 15000 ha is located in the territory of Gusar district; there is maintained beech forest named "Alistan-baba" near the settlement of Urva at the area of 7 ha. The features of the district are beautiful waterfalls of Shaknabaz and Laza. Each person is impressed with the view of the falling water creating snow-white foam and fireworks of the water splash.
 

Guba city

Territory of Guba district stretches from the northeastern mountainsides of Great Caucasus range to Samur-Devechi lowland. There are a lot of picturesque nooks of nature in the region: Balbulag, Gizbanovsha, Gachresh, Tangaalti Gorge at the depth of 400- 600 meters, grand waterfall near the village of Afurja at the height of 75-80 meters. There is unique waterfall Pirbanovsha in the district, where the water created graceful natural sculptures. One of creations of the nature warn by the water in the rock is a "Minaret". There are two artificial lakes. The district of rich flora and fauna has good conditions for hunting and fishing.
Being one of the agricultural centers of the country, the district is famous for its apple gardens. In spring, all the neighborhood is full with the aroma when the apple-trees are blossoming. Sometimes, Guba is called "apple garden".
 

Lankaran city

Lankaran district is allocated at southeast part of Azerbaijan, at Lankaran terrain, being spread out on tens of kilometers. Waters of Caspian Sea wash out the territory of the district in the eastern side. 29 thousands hectares of the area are covered with woods. Climate of Lankaran city is humid-subtropical. Here you cannot meet severe snowy winter. Summer is dry and hot, and autumn is rainy. Mid annual air temperature +14 C. January is the most cold month (+3,4 C), July is the most hot month (+25,1 C) of year. Annual amount of downfalls constitutes 1400-1600 mm. Round year those places are covered with green livery of spring.
 

Lerik city

Highly in Talish mountains, where someone might touch heavens with its own hand it is allocated one of the most picturesque corners of Azerbaijan – Lerik district. Here you could find out everything, by which nature might gift a man: magnificent mountains, thick forests, rivers and waterfalls, crystalline pure fresh air and fertile soil. The highest points in the area – Komurgoy (2492 m) and Gisyurdu (2433 m) mountains. In autumn it often rains, roads paved towards far villages become not passable. In summer temperature +20 C, +25 C. Natural recreational zones of Buludul are popular (20 km out of district center) and Zaringala as well (17 km). Here you may find out rills with the tastiest water. In forests and alongside the Lerik riverbanks, there are available conditions intended for going on wild boar, hare, fox, partridge, ducks. In hard accessible corners of woods, among mountains there is leopard habituated. Nowadays, scientific program is in force; that program is targeted on keeping of that rare bruit.
 

Masally city

Masally – agriculture district situated on main road, leading from Baku city onto the south to Lankaran and Iran. In antic ancient times, this territory was in composition of states of Manna, Atropatena. Since mid of XVIII century it was allocated in the body of Talish khanate.
The area is surrounded by Caspian Sea from the one side and Talish mountains – from another one’s. By relief the area might be conventionally divided on mountain (Talish) and plain (Lankaran terrain) parts. Climate is subtropical. Vilash, Tatyan, Alvaidichay rivers and others are flown along the area’s territory and fallen onto Caspian Sea.
The richest vegetable land was kept in forestry of Gariblar and Yenikand valuable breeds. Of trees such as beech, hornbeam, ferrous tree, alder, and oak. In hunting farm of Girmizi village one may hunt on woody beasts and on the territory, being closer to Gizilagach preserve park on-water floating birds and animals like fox, wild boar, badger, wolf.
 

Mingechevir city

Mingechevir has been associated on the Kura River with a construction of a hydroelectric power station. It has received city status in November 11, 1948. It is located 323 km from Baku. It is 17 km away from Baku-Tbilisi railway. Republican airport is located 30 km from in Yevlakh region, international airport is located 80 km from in the city of Ganja. Geographically the city has been established in the center of Republic on both sides on the banks of the Kura River. Mingechevir reservoir is located 3 km from north-west of the city. The volume of reservoir is 15.7 billion cubic meters, 70 km length, 18 km maximum width, 605 square kilometers surface area covering, average depth of 27 meters (maximum depth 83 m), level of volatility is 5-7 meters. The length of the dam of reservoir is 1550 meters. The climate of Mingechevir city is warm. The average temperature is 2-3 degrees on January and 27-30 degrees in July. Annual precipitation is 300-310 mm.
 

Naphthalene city

Naphthalene city is located 330 km from west of Baku, 50 km from Ganja city, 18 km awayfrom railway station of “Goran” and in foothills plains of Murov mountain. It is situated 240-250 m above sea level. It has warm summer and soft winter. The average of annual temperature is 14,8 degree. Movement of wind speed is 5,0 m / sec ². - The area of the city was 879,82 ha till May 31, 2010. However with the aim of expansion of resort zone the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan signed “partially changing in administrative territorial units of Goranboy region and Naphthalene city of the Republic of Azerbaijan” dated May 31, 2010 and according to the command No.958 about the law enforcement dated June 10, 2010 2692,81 hectares plot of lands from administrative territorial unit of Goranboy was included to the administrative territorial unit of Naphthalene city and the city has a total area of 3572,62 hectares. - The population is 9187. - It consists of one city and two villages. - There is one political party YAP (NAP) is functioning. - There is one press body "Naphthalene" newspaper is published. - There is one “Juma” mosque. - Mr. Ilham Aliyev the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan visited Naphthalene city on March 03, 2008 and on February 10, 2011.
 

Oghuz city

Oghuz district is allocated on the southern slopes of Big Caucasus and is bounded with Russia in the north. The highest spot of the area is Malkamud Mountain (3879 m). Oghuz district is called like Azerbaijan Swiss. The nature of those places is beautiful: mountain rivers and valleys, boiling rills and waterfalls, salutary sulfur well and bluff rocks. Woods occupy 40% of the territory of the area. On the territory of that district there are grown nuts, filbert, apples, pears, merry, dogwood, May flower, barberry, strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, alycha. There are animals such as wild boar, mountain goat, bear, and hare. Among birds – pheasant, hen, turaj, geese. Among fishes – trout, catfish.
 

Siyazan city

The district is to the north of Baku and lies along the Caspian coast. Gilgilchay, Atachay Rivers run through the territory of the district. Summer is hot and dry here. Average temperature in July is +25 C. Precipitations in a year total to 340-520 mm. Bear, wolf, steppe cat, jackal are among the animals living in the territory of the district. There are sources of the water sulfur.
 

Salyan city

Salyan district is washed out from the east by waters of Caspian Sea; along the territory of the district, Kura River flows. Salyan plain upon many characteristics has similarity with Mugan plain.
Salyan area is “gates” opened to Lankaran-Astara zone, since, namely via Salyan territory there are railroad and highroads are passing through, binding Baku with the southern districts of Azerbaijan. On the territory of the area, in five kilometers from center, there are allocated muddy volcano – Babazanan, which attracts numerous visitors by its medicinal mud.
District area is “gates” opened of Lankaran – Astara zone, since, namely via Salyan territory there are railroad and highroads are passing through, binding Baku with the southern districts of Azerbaijan. On the territory of the area, in five kilometers from center, there are allocated muddy volcano – Babazanan, which attracts numerous visitors by its medicinal mud.
District center – Salyan city having been arisen at ancient caravan ways binding the northern and western cities of Azerbaijan with the southern cities, as well as with countries of Middle East region. The city was formed by tribe “sal”, herewith there is taken name of the city. Kura River, which occupies all city with numerous curves.
 

Sheki city

Sheki district is one of the most interesting, original and beautiful areas of Azerbaijan. Administrative district center – Sheki city being allocated at picturesque southern slopes of Big Caucasian Ridge on the background of white snow tops – one of the most ancient cities of Azerbaijan.
By the period of Sheki to be founded is considered the first thousand years of A.D. Presumable age of the city – 2500-2600 years. Its name it received from saki tribe being lived in the past. Ancient Sheki was at route of commercial ways and was huge trading center and district of developed silky and handicraft manufacturing. All travelers in all ages by the first case they had visited bazaars. At the famous Sheki bazaars it was happened brisk market of seeds, silk, ceramic products, relief dishes, jewelry decorations. However, most part of all Sheki city gained honor by its silk. Merchants from Europe, Asia, Middle East brought out towards countries of the world, airy, transparent as veil sewed with the golden silk. We may just guess what liveliness was reigned in those places, when in the past via here was passed the Great Silk Way. By not less popularity were used as well as such amazing beauties as Sheki carpets.
 

Shamakhy city

Shamakhi district is a center of Shirvan region. Center of the district, Shamakhi city, has become a main city of feudal state of the Shirvanshah already in VI century. Remains of the construction and objects discovered during archeological digs confirm existence of the city already in 2,5-3 thousand years ago. Shamakhi is noted in the works of ancient Greek historian Ptolomei among the cities of Caucasian Albania. Caravans from the Far East and India were coming here loaded with the silk. Since the old years, Shamakhi was famous for its gardens and silk cloths. Various kinds of fields were developed here in the Middle ages. Embossing with ornaments from copper, highly artistic decorations, objects of the home appliance were made here with skill.
The city has changed its name for the centurial existence many times. Such names as Shirvan, sharvan, Khairvan, Ashshmakh, Shakhmakh, Shamukh etc. can be met in various sources and various historical periods. According to one of the versions, Shamakhi name origins is the words "shakh" - big and "makh" - city. According to another version it origins in the world "sham" - Arabic name of the city of Damask and "akhi" (ekhi) - "double", "similar". The Syrians who moved here were comparing it with Damask by its beauty and eminence.
 

Shamkir city

One hour is taken to get to Ganja city and you wild be appeared in administrative center Shamkir. Shamkir city gained its name from ancient equivalent fortress, ruins of which were stored in 20 km to the east of the town, nearby Mukhtariat village. Foundation of Shamkir town relates to V-VI centuries. In medieval ages, it was known with name like Shamkur. The town was allocated on Big Shamkir riverbank, being flown alongside Small Caucasus. Wealth of the city always attracted attention of foreign merchants and invaders. Following regular crushing defeat, staying alive not numerous population had left Shamkur and lied for the night in 9-10 km from the previous inhabited locality.
 

Shusha city

Shusha is one of the most beautiful cities of Azerbaijan. The name of "Shusha" means glass being symbolizing pure, remarkable transparent mountain air. The nature had gifted Shusha by unique rills and mineral waters. Among them Turshsu, Isa bulag, Sakina-bulag, Isti-bulag, Soyug-bulag, Charikh-bulag, Cakhsi-bulag, Yuz-bulag and others.
Shusha is engirded from both sides with powerful fortress wall. The city by its birth is obliged to emerging and rise of puissance of Garabag khanate. With a view of foreign invaders the Governor of Panahali-khan's khanate constructed serious of fortresses, particulary, Bayat and Shakhbulag, had strengthened Askeran fortress. However, that was not enough. Khan with all this yard several during years he lived in fortress of bayat and Shakhbulag, and soon, in 1756-1757 years he erected the fortress of which had been called Panahabad, and a few later-as per name of around laying villaGE - Shusha. Among people, that fortress had been already known under the name "Gala". City-fortress for many years was capital of Azerbaijan Garabag khanate.
 

Terter city

Terter district occupies undercurrent Tereter River and from the northern side it is bounded with Inja River. Climate in the district is changed from moderate up to hot of semi desert and deserted. Temperature in January +2 C, in June +25 C. Along the territory of the area there are flowing Terter and Khachichay rivers.
The district center, Treter city, is allocated on the right and left riverbanks of Terter, on the ancient caravan ways. Historical name of the area was Chaparkhana; here existed caravanserai and fortress being backward in 17 km of the ancient capital of Albanian state - Barda.
Among national handcrafts, it was developed carpet farming, fancywork and weaving.
 

Tovuz city

The district is allocated in the west of Azerbaijan and being bounded with Georgia and Armenia. The area territory is entering into Basin of Kura River. There are flowing rivers Tovuz, Zayam Asrick, Akhinja. Climate is dry and subtropical. There are being outspreaded at mountain slopes of the region, splendid nature and numerous rills. Square of forests constitutes 32 000 Hectares. In the area, there is available animal world: wolf, hare, turaj, partridge etc. there are available possibilities intended for making fishery and hunting on hare and water floating bird.
Administrative area center - Tovuz center. According to ancient Turk sources, the name of city had taken its origin from name of Turk speaking tribes "oguz", toguz" to being united.
Among architectural monuments there still exist viz.: bridge, mosque and mausoleum of XVII century in village Yanikhli, bridge of XX century - on Tovuz river, ruins cerevanserai, kakhriz ( water pipeline), dwelling houses, water stand pipe tower of XIX century - in Tovuz town, Kerogli tower of VII century - in Alibeyli village, octahedral mausoleum - in Gazgulu village, ruins of XIX century's fortress and mosque of Abbas shakh' XVII century. besides, on the territory of the area by archeologists it was found out witnesses of habitants having been stayed here during Stone Age, bronze ages.
 

Zagatala city

Zagatala district is allocated on the north-west of Azerbaijan, at rocked bed slopes of the Big Caucasus. On the north-east part, the area is bounded with Dagestan Republic of Russian Federation, on the west and on the east – relevantly with Balaken and Gakh districts. Landscape being existed in the north and northeast sides is mountain, and in the south and southwest is flatted. The highest point is Guton mountain (3648 m). Climate at the plain is warm, in mountains – cold. The mid temperature of January on the plain - 1 C, in mountains - 10 C, mid temperature of July accordingly +24 C and +5 C. Level of precipitation constitutes 600-1600 mm a year. Half of the territory of the area is occupied with woods, basically, in mountains. It grows rare the most valuable types of trees: chestnuts, hazelnuts, nuts, filbert, oak, beech, hornbeam, garagaj and others. At the plain, the greenery is privilege like bushes. Noble deer, it is habituated pheasant, snowbird, partridge, turaj, mountain eagle, hawk, nightingale and others.
Having founded in 1929 Zagatala national park occupies part of the area territory. Square of the reserve constitutes 23844 Hectares. In the National park, it is forbidden to carry out any economic activity, but there are conditions available for ecological tourism. Having making walk tour or on horses upon tourist routes one may watch animals and birds habituated in reserves, make camera shooting and photo. At the aforesaid routes there are places where tourists might have relaxation term and to stay at night. It is presumably hunting on pheasant and water floating bird and running to such animals as wild bore, hare. In outskirts of Gas village, you may have skating in winter. Zagatala – international region. Herein in conjunction with Azerbaijanis, there live representatives of more than 20 nations: Avars, Tsakhurs, Russian, Lezghins, Tatars, Ingiloys and others.
 

Yevlakh city

Yevlakh district is situated on the right bank of Kura. The area center – Yevlakh city. In Yevlakh, there are collided roadway roads, leading to Khankend, Mingechevir, Sheki, Balaken and ganja. This is railroad limb Yevlakh-Balaken that takes its outset spot from here. Note worthy of that road is that it passes lightly through the most splendid of Azerbaijan.
Yevlakh city as per historical documents of XII century formerly was called “gates of Garabag”. Via those “gates” there were passed roads towards, being the well-known in Azerbaijan, eylags (alpine grasslands – summer pastures) in Kelbajar, Lachin and further to Batabat.
 

Nakhchivan city

It is the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Nakhcivan. The territory is 191,82 square kilometers; the population is 85,7 thousand people (01.08.2011). The distance from Nakhchivan to Baku is 536 km. It is one of the ancient cities of Azerbaijan. It is situated in the center of large scale industry, scientific and culture as well as significant railway and in the junction of motor transport. There is the International Airport. Nakhchivan city is located in Nakhchivan plain and in the Coast of Nakhchivan River. The climate is continental. The average temperature is – 3,80 C in January and 26,90 C in July, annual precipitation is 236 mm. Military Lyceums named after Heydar Aliyev, 3 high schools, 3 secondary and 19 secondary schools, Nakhchivan Section of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan State Musical Drama Theatre named after J. Mammadguluzade, Puppet Theatre, Children's Theatre, Philharmonic, Art Gallery, Olympic Sports Complex named after Ilham Aliyev, Swimming Center, Sports Complex and Stadium Society of “Dinamo", Chess School, 7 of extracurricular and 9 pre-school educational institutions, 8 libraries, 4 clubs, 10 museums, 6 music school, the Nakhchivan Tourism Information Center, 3 of cultural and recreation park , "Ganjlik" (Youth) Center, Diagnostic Treatment Center, Birth Center, 14 hospitals, Government Agencies and other service facilities are in Nakhchivan.
 

Babek city

Babek district is situated in the central part of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. It borders with Armenia in the north, with Iran - in the south. Landscape in the north and southeast of the country is mountainous; lowlands are in the south and southwest. The highest points in the district are Kechaltapa (2740 m), Garagush (2617 m) and Buzgov (2470 m) mountains. There are rock salt and construction materials fields in the territory of region, springs like Sirab, Vayhir, Ganab etc. The summer is hot, winteris cold. Average temperature of january is from -3 C to -10 C; in July - from +28 C to +35 C (sometimes reaches up up to +40 C). Precipitations are not common here totaling to 200-600 mm. Main rivers are: Nakhchivanchay river dividing the district into two parts and its inflow Jahirchay river. The waters of these rivers are used in irrigation. Araz River runs along the border with Iran. There are storage pools: Araz, Uzunoba, Nehram, Sirab etc. Wolf, fox, jerboa, hedgehog etc. are among the animals.
 

Sharur city

Sharur district is situated in the west of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and borders with Iran in the south. Landscape in the north and east of the district is mountainous. Daralayazy mountain range takes this territory. The highest point in the region is Galingaya mountain (2775 m). Climate is semi-desert, summer is arid. Average temperature in January is from +3 C to +6 C; precipitations in a year total to 200-400 mm. Rivers running in the territory of the district (Arpachay etc.) relate to the Basin of Araz River. Their waters are widely used in irrigation, so Arpachay storage pool constructed for this purpose. Flora, mainly, is represented by the semi-desert species. Such animals as mountain goat, mouflon, wolf, fox, hare, boar etc. live here. Partridge, pleasant etc. are among the birds.
 

Shahbuz city

Shahbuz district in situated in the north of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Landscape of the district is mountainous. The highest points are Salvarti, Kechaldag (3115 m) (3160 m) and Kukuldag (3120 m) mountains. Mountain pass Bichanak is in the territory of the district. There are mineral fields in the district: fields of sulfur, peat, and construction materials. The district is rich of the springs - Badamli, Bichanak, Batabat, and Caravansara etc. Climate is hot in summer and cold in winter. Nakhchivanchay River and its inflows Salvarti, Kuku, Shahbuz Rivers run in the territory of the district. There are Batabat, Ganligol lakes etc. Such trees as oak, beech, hornbeam grow in the forests. Fauna is represented with animals, such as bear, mountain goat, lynx, boar, wolf, fox etc.
 

Julfa city

Julfa district occupied the territory to the east of the city of Nakhchivan. The highest point in the district is Damirlidag mountain (3364 m). Summer is hot and arid, winter is cold. The average temperature of January is from -10 degrees centigrade to -3 degrees of centigrade, in July from +19 degrees centigrade to +28 degrees of centigrade. Precipitations are 200-600 mm a year. Rivers of Alinja, Garadara flow along the territory of the district:; Araz River - along the bound with Iran. There are forst tracts in the mountains, where the oaks, beeches, hornbeams grow. Fauna is represented by such animals as wolf, fox, here etc.
Administrative center of Julfa district city situated on the blank of Araz River on the bound with Iran. The city of the same name is located across the river - Iranian Julfa. The city was on the caravan routes from Iran to Georgia, Shirvan, and Dagestan in the antiquity and was of great economic and cultural importance.
 

Ordubad city

Ordubad district located in the eastern part of the Nakhchivan Republic bounds with Armenia in the north and east Iran in the south, Julfa district - in the west. Summer in the district, rich flora and fauna. Fresh air, rare herbal greens, aromatic fruits brought the popularity to the district. Ordubad peaches, pears, grapes, apricots are very popular because of their mellowness and sweetness.