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Ateshgah: The Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Baku

Explore the Ateshgah Fire Temple in Baku, a historic site where Zoroastrian, Hindu, and Sikh traditions converge in a mesmerizing display of fire worship.

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The Ateshgah, or "Fire Temple," is a historical religious site on the outskirts of Baku, Azerbaijan, with roots in ancient Zoroastrian fire worship. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, the temple served as a pilgrimage site for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs. Today, it stands as a museum, offering a glimpse into Azerbaijan's rich cultural and religious heritage.

A brief summary to Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) to witness another of Baku's fire attractions.
  • Hire a local guide at the entrance for detailed explanations in English or other languages.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Baku city center, take the Baku Metro to Koroglu Station. From there, you can catch a taxi or bus (No. 184) to the Ateshgah. A bus ride from Koroglu to the temple will cost approximately 0.30 AZN. Alternatively, buses 191, 113, and 213 can be taken from Gara Garayev metro station, and bus 104 from Hazi Aslanov metro station.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Baku. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Nizami Street) to Ateshgah takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately 8-10 AZN. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Uber are also available.

  • Car

    If driving from Baku, head east on the main highway. The Ateshgah is located about 30 km from the city center in the Surakhani district. Parking is available near the temple. Parking fee for passenger cars is 1 AZN for a maximum of 3 hours.

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Discover more about Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple

The Ateshgah, often called the "Fire Temple of Baku," is a unique historical and architectural monument located in the Surakhani suburb of Baku. The name "Ateshgah" translates to "House of Fire" in Persian, reflecting its historical significance as a place of fire worship. Constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries, the temple's origins trace back to ancient Zoroastrian traditions. The site was chosen due to the natural emission of gas, which caused flames to spontaneously rise from the ground. These flames were considered sacred by Zoroastrians, who believe fire represents purity and divine truth. Over time, the temple also became a place of worship for Hindu and Sikh pilgrims from the Indian subcontinent who traveled to the Caspian region for trade. The temple's architecture reflects a blend of Persian and Indian styles, showcasing intricate carvings and inscriptions. The Ateshgah complex features a pentagonal structure with a central courtyard surrounded by cells once occupied by monks and pilgrims. In the center of the courtyard stands the altar-sanctuary, where a natural gas-fueled fire burns. Although the original natural flames extinguished in 1969 due to gas extraction, the eternal flame is now maintained with a piped gas supply. The site was used as a place of worship until 1880. Today, the Ateshgah is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists from around the globe. Visitors can explore the temple complex, learn about the history of Zoroastrianism and Hinduism in Azerbaijan, and admire the unique architecture and eternal flame.

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