Highland Park Travel Guide

Highland Park, or Dağüstü Park, is one of Baku's most cherished destinations, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and stunning panoramic views. Perched atop a hill, it provides an unparalleled vantage point to admire the city's skyline, the Caspian Sea, and the Flame Towers.Originally known as English Park, the area served as a burial site for British soldiers in the early 20th century. In 1935, architect Lev Ilyin transformed it into a public park. During the Soviet era, it was named after Sergey Kirov, with a monument erected in his honor. After Azerbaijan regained its independence, the park was renamed Highland Park.The park's layout features wide staircases, winding alleys, and terraces, all constructed using local Baku limestone. Key highlights include the Alley of Martyrs, a memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Black January events and the Nagorno-Karabakh War. The Eternal Flame within the Alley symbolizes the enduring spirit of Azerbaijan's heroes.Visitors can also appreciate the Gulistan Palace, built in the 1980s, which has hosted significant cultural events, including the signing of the “Contract of the Century” in 1994. Highland Park is not only a scenic retreat but also a place of reflection, remembrance, and community.