AZERBAIJANI ARCHITECTURE STYLEBack to Main

The Second Oil Boom

In 1994, the Azerbaijani government signed a contract with several foreign oil companies, dubbed the “Contract of the Century” by media outlets. As foreign investment buoyed the Azerbaijani oil industry, sleek, glassy skyscrapers sprang up in Baku, as the country experienced a second oil boom. Many of the Bakuvians resent the modern buildings, preferring pre-Soviet architecture.
The Commercial and Residential Flame Towers
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The Commercial and Residential Flame Towers

The commercial and residential Flame Towers, designed by Zaha Hadid, have become identifiable across the world as a defining feature of the Baku skyline. The Flame Towers also are an example of Post-Modern architecture.


AZERBAIJANI Architecture

Old City BakuModern Azerbaijan is both a dynamic, progressive nation and an ancient civilization with vibrant traditions and culture. Nowhere is this combination of old and new more evident than in Azerbaijan’s built environment. For example, the architecture of Azerbaijan’s capital city, Baku, beautifully showcases this legacy. While Baku’s office buildings, apartment complexes, and glass skyscrapers mirror modern European design, ”Old City” Baku, known as  Icheri sheher,  features medieval Islamic domes, minarets, and ancient stone walls.

Azerbaijani Radio Hour


The Voice of the Karabakh Foundation, October 2, 2011. Access any of the shows of the Azerbaijani Radio Hour: The Voice of the Karabakh Foundation at www.KarabakhFoundation.org.