11 Facts About Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan Flag Map (credit: pixabay)

If I'm being completely transparent, one of the nations I wish I had known in greater detail sooner is Azerbaijan. It is annoying that it is frequently shortened to a pin on a map between Europe and Asia given that, in the most excellent manner conceivable, that little pin uncovers layers of culture, history, and absolute uniqueness. Azerbaijan gradually undermines norms, from ancient caves older than written history to blazing slopes. The following compilation is for you if you like travel-related statistics that make you stop and ask yourself, "Wait, are you kidding?"

1. Azerbaijan is Home to The World’s Highest Concentration of Mud Volcanoes: Indeed, mud volcanoes exist, and Azerbaijan has more of them than any other place on the planet. Plenty are bubbling similar to slow-motion scientific experiments near Baku and the Caspian Sea. These mountains represent nature's sense of comedy if you have ever been fed up with ordinary mountains.

   Guidance: If you want to travel, make sure you have a guide because some places are hard to get to.

2. Azerbaijan is One of The Few Countries Located at The Crossroads of Two Continents: You can sense that Azerbaijan is at the intersection of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Heritage, food scene, and architecture all combine influences in a manner that seems natural rather than manufactured. It is similar to being able to be present in two places at the same time without having to change your passport.

3. Azerbaijan Has Naturally Burning Mountains: The natural flames of Yanar Dağ, which translates to "Burning Mountain," appear to never go out. Gas penetrates through the earth and ignites when it comes into touch with air. It is unbelievable to stand there, as if somebody neglected to switch off nature's burner. As an example, consider a campfire that has been built into a mountainside without the need for fuel.

4. Azerbaijan Was Among The First Oil-Producing Regions in The World: Azerbaijan began oil extraction in the middle of the 1800s, long before present day oil companies took over attention. Baku's economy and skyline were shaped by its status as one of the world's first oil cities. The nation's current identity continues to be shaped by this past.

5. Azerbaijan Was The First Muslim-Majority Country to Grant Women The Right to Vote: The first nation with a great deal of Muslims to offer women the right to vote was Azerbaijan in 1918. A lot are surprised that it was earlier than a number of Western countries. It serves as an indication that things do not always go as planned.

6. Azerbaijan Has an Exclave Separated From The Rest of The Country: Armenia isolates Nakhchivan, an Azerbaijani exclave, from the other parts of the nation. It retains a distinct local character and strong cultural links while being geographically remote. It is comparable to a household member who remains very much an essential member of the family while living far away.

7. Azerbaijan Has Ancient Human Settlements Over 1 Million Years Old: Stone tools from over a million years ago can be found in the Azikh Cave. Accordingly, Azerbaijan is one of the oldest recognized human settlements in Eurasia. Being close to such a location can quickly make present-day issues seem insignificant.

8. Azerbaijan Carpets Are Protected by UNESCO: In Azerbaijan, carpet weaving is a form of narrating as well as decorating. Regions, values, and generations of families are all reflected in patterns. This craft, which preserves abilities passed on through the centuries, is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

   Useful guidance: Inquire regarding the symbols while purchasing a carpet because every one of them has a purpose.

9. Azerbaijan is One of The Most Linguistically Diverse Countries in The Region: Numerous minority languages, such as Lezgian, Talysh, and Avar, are spoken in addition to Azerbaijani. In rural places, where language varies from village to village, this variation is particularly apparent.

10. Azerbaijan Has a Salt Mountain That Was Once Used as a Natural Hospital: Individuals with breathing issues were thought to benefit from Duzdağ Salt Mine. Patients breathed the mineral-rich air while strictly limited for hours. Although it may seem odd in the beginning, salt therapy continues to be implemented present-day, demonstrating that certain outdated theories were not entirely out of the question.

11. Azerbaijan Has Petroglyphs Dating Back Over 40,000 Years: Early humans carved petroglyphs in Gobustan National Park. These illustrations provide a unique window into ancient everyday life by illustrating hunting scenes, animals, and ceremonies. It resembles reading a journal imprinted on stone.

Summary: Where Fire, History, & Culture Refuse to Be Ordinary

Azerbaijan could seem neglected, but that is precisely what makes it unique. It is a site where old art endures outside, fire flames from hillsides, and present-day cities flourish alongside rich history. Azerbaijan encourages exploration, whether you are a tourist, a history enthusiast, or simply an individual who likes interesting information. If there is one thing to remember, it is that Azerbaijan is difficult to classify. To be open-minded, that is what makes it worthwhile.