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Ateshgah: The Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Baku

Explore the Ateshgah Fire Temple in Baku, a historic site of Zoroastrian, Hindu, and Sikh worship with a fascinating eternal flame.

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The Ateshgah, or "Fire Temple," is a historical-religious site in Baku, Azerbaijan, with roots stretching back to ancient fire-worshipping traditions. The current structure dates mainly to the 17th and 18th centuries, built upon an earlier Zoroastrian worship site. It served as a pilgrimage and philosophical center for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs, particularly those from the Indian subcontinent involved in Caspian trade.

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Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting the temple, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and religious significance of the Ateshgah.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) for a comprehensive exploration of Azerbaijan's fire-related attractions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Baku city center, take bus number 184 from Ulduz metro station to the north concourse of Surakhani train station. Cross the rail tracks through that station, turn left, go through a stone gateway, and walk for three minutes passing a cafe-restaurant. The bus fare is 0.30 AZN, payable with a BakuCard.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber are readily available in Baku. A taxi ride from the city center to Ateshgah typically takes 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 8-10 AZN for the trip. It is advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, or use the app to get an estimated cost.

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Discover more about Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple

Located in the Surakhani area of Baku, the Ateshgah Fire Temple stands as a testament to Azerbaijan's historical and cultural links to Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and Sikhism. The word "Ateshgah" comes from the Persian word for "fire temple". The temple's history is complex, with evidence suggesting the site was used for fire worship long before the current structure was built. The temple complex has a pentagonal shape, resembling a small fortress with a central courtyard. In the center stands a tetrapillar altar, where a flame burns, fueled by a gas pipeline, preserving the site's historical ambiance. Surrounding the courtyard are cells once used by monks and pilgrims, now housing a museum with exhibits detailing the history of fire worship, Zoroastrianism, and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Inscriptions in Sanskrit, Persian, and Punjabi can be found throughout the complex. While the original natural gas vents that fueled the eternal flame diminished in the 19th century, the site remains a powerful symbol of the region's spiritual heritage. Visitors can explore the monk cells, examine the artifacts and exhibits, and witness the eternal flame replica. The Ateshgah stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human history and the shared values that unite people across different cultures and religions.

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