Baku Pictorial

(Kyle at Maiden's Tower)
Probably the most popular destination in Baku, and maybe all of Azerbaijan, is Maiden's Tower in the Old City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Azerbaijan's most recognizable national emblems. Maiden's Tower dates to the 12th century when it was situated right off of Baku Bay. It is believed to have been a watch tower or for those that relish in romance, the legend says that a maiden threw herself from the top, drowning in the waves below.



(Cats perch on carpets and authentic pottery in the Old City)
Once inside the Old City, visitors can purchase "Oriental" rugs and other artifacts. In order to leave Azerbaijan with such items, you must have an original certificate from the rug dealer.



(Old meets new in this view from atop Old City wall, looking at new apartment high rises under construction)


(Notice the man standing precariously at the top of the tree. He was using a stick to beat/shake down olives from this tree inside the Old City)



(View of Azerbaijan flag from atop of the Funikulyor)
Baku recently hoisted the national flag on the world's largest flag pole, as designated by the Guiness Book of World Records.



(View of the Bulvar and smaller Azeri flag from atop of the Funikulyor)
Notice the city scape beyond the Bulvar. Baku is approximately 4 million people.



(Mosque at the top of the Funikulyor)



(Large poster of former Azeri President Heydar Aliyev)
President Aliyev served from 1993-2003. Billboards featuring the past president are seen throughout Baku.


(Pimped out Lada. Notice the painted on white walls.)