Geographical position and Climate of Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It shares borders with Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west, and Iran to the south. The eastern border is along the Caspian Sea, providing Azerbaijan with a significant coastline.
The climate in the country is diverse due to its varied geography. The country experiences nine out of eleven possible climate zones. The eastern coastal areas along the Caspian Sea have a mild and humid climate, while the central and eastern parts have a more arid and semi-arid climate. The mountainous regions in the north and west experience colder temperatures and more precipitation, often resulting in snow during the winter months. Summers can be hot, especially in the lowland areas.
Brief History of Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan’s history is rich and complex, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The region has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age.
In the early centuries, Azerbaijan was part of various empires, including the Achaemenid Empire and later the Sassanian Empire. The arrival of Islam in the 7th century significantly influenced its culture and society.
During the Middle Ages, Azerbaijan was a center of trade and culture, with cities like Baku and Ganja flourishing. The region was later dominated by the Seljuk Turks and then the Mongols.
In the 16th century, Azerbaijan became part of the Safavid Empire, which established Shia Islam as the state religion. The area was contested between the Persian and Ottoman Empires until the Russian Empire annexed it in the 19th century.
Azerbaijan declared independence in 1918, forming the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world. However, it was short-lived, as the Soviet Union incorporated Azerbaijan in 1920.
Azerbaijan regained independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since then, it has developed its economy, largely due to its oil and gas resources, while navigating regional conflicts, particularly with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Religion
Azerbaijan is predominantly Muslim, with the majority of the population adhering to Shia Islam. This is a result of historical influences, particularly during the Safavid Empire, which established Shia Islam as the state religion. Sunni Islam is also practiced, though to a lesser extent.
Language
The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, also known as Azeri. It is a Turkic language and is spoken by the majority of the population. Azerbaijani uses a Latin script, which was adopted after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union.
In addition to Azerbaijani, Russian is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among older generations. English is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among the younger population and in business settings. There are also several minority languages spoken in Azerbaijan, reflecting its diverse ethnic composition.
Places to visit in Azerbaijan
Before you visit Azerbaijan
Travel to Azerbaijan
- By Air: The most convenient way to reach the country is by flying into Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku. Many international airlines offer direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- By Train: You can travel by train from neighboring countries like Russia and Georgia. The Baku-Tbilisi route is popular for those coming from Georgia.
- By Bus: Buses connect Azerbaijan with nearby countries such as Turkey, Iran, and Georgia. This option is more budget-friendly but takes longer than flying.
- By Car: Driving to Azerbaijan is possible through border crossings with Russia, Georgia, Iran, and Turkey. Make sure to check visa requirements and road conditions.
- By Sea: Ferries operate across the Caspian Sea, connecting Azerbaijan with countries like Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. This is a unique way to enter the country, though schedules can be irregular.
Visas for Azerbaijan
- E-Visa: Most travelers can apply for an e-visa online through the ASAN Visa system. This is a quick and convenient option, usually processed within three business days. The e-visa is valid for 30 days.
- Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of certain countries, mainly those with direct flights to Azerbaijan. It’s advisable to check eligibility before traveling.
- Embassy Visa: If you’re not eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival, you can apply for a visa at an Azerbaijani embassy or consulate. This process may take longer, so plan ahead.
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of a few countries can enter Azerbaijan without a visa for a limited period. Check the current list of visa-free countries before your trip.
- Transit Visa: If you’re passing through Azerbaijan on your way to another destination, you might need a transit visa, depending on your nationality and the length of your stay.
Always check the latest visa requirements and regulations before traveling, as they can change.
Best time to visit Azerbaijan
The best time to visit the country is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring both urban and natural attractions. Spring brings blooming flowers and lush landscapes, while autumn offers colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summers can be quite hot, especially in the lowland areas, while winters are cold, particularly in the mountainous regions.
Important Information
Capital – Baku
Territory – 86,600 km2
Currency – Manat (AZN)
Time Zone – UTC+4 (AZT)
Population – 10,353,296
Demonym – Azerbaijani / Azeri