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Gobustan National Park Museum: Echoes of the Ancients

Explore ancient rock art & mud volcanoes at Gobustan National Park Museum, a UNESCO site near Baku, Azerbaijan. Discover prehistoric culture & history.

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The Gobustan National Park Museum, near Baku, Azerbaijan, is a modern gateway to an ancient landscape. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it protects over 6,000 petroglyphs dating back 40,000 years, offering insights into prehistoric life, art, and culture. The museum provides context to the petroglyphs and highlights the region's unique geology, including mud volcanoes.

A brief summary to Gobustan National Park Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain when exploring the petroglyph sites.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the area can be hot and exposed.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the petroglyphs and their historical significance.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the mud volcanoes can be more active in certain conditions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Gobustan National Park Museum from Baku by public transport, take bus 125 from Azneft Square to the Bina Shopping Center (approximately 0.60 AZN). Then, cross to the Bina Shopping Center and take bus 195 to Gobustan village (cost approximately 1.30 AZN, cash only). From Gobustan village, take a taxi to the museum (approximately 12 AZN). Keep in mind that bus no. 195 does not accept BakuCard.

  • Taxi

    A taxi directly from Baku to Gobustan National Park Museum will cost approximately 30-40 AZN and take around 1.5 hours. Negotiate the price beforehand. Taxis can be found at Heydar Aliyev International Airport or taxi terminals across the city.

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Discover more about Gobustan National Park Museum

The Gobustan National Park Museum serves as the starting point for exploring Azerbaijan's ancient past, offering an immersive experience into prehistoric rock art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site safeguards a remarkable collection of over 6,000 petroglyphs, dating back as far as 40,000 years. These carvings provide a glimpse into the lives of early humans, their beliefs, customs, and understanding of the natural world. The museum's exhibits delve into the rich history, geology, and biodiversity of the Gobustan region, providing a comprehensive understanding of the environment that shaped the lives of its early inhabitants. Interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and informative panels guide visitors through Gobustan's history, from the Paleolithic era to the Middle Ages. Artifacts unearthed during archaeological excavations offer tangible connections to the people who once called this land home. The petroglyphs depict hunting scenes, animal figures, rituals, and astronomical observations. The museum also highlights Gobustan's unique geological features, including mud volcanoes, rocky terrain, and a semi-arid climate. Information is provided on the formation of these mud volcanoes, which continue to erupt periodically, adding to the region's dynamic landscape. The museum emphasizes preserving this fragile cultural heritage, educating visitors about the threats posed by erosion, vandalism, and unsustainable tourism practices. Visitors can explore the open-air petroglyph sites after visiting the museum to witness the artistry of early humans. Carved into boulders and rock formations, these engravings reveal the artistic skills, spiritual beliefs, and understanding of the natural world of the ancestors. Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian anthropologist, believed that the petroglyphs provided historical evidence that Azerbaijan was one of the cradles of civilization.

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