Fountain Square: The Heartbeat of Baku

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeSag ol
  [sahg ohl]
• YesBəli
  [buh-lee]
• NoXeyr
  [khayr]
• Please/You're welcomeXahiş edirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rehm]
• Thank youTəşəkkür edirəm
  [teh-shuhk-koor eh-dee-rehm]
• Excuse me/SorryBağışlayın
  [bah-guhsh-lah-yuhn]
• How are you?Necəsən?
  [neh-jeh-suhn]
• Fine. And you?Yaxşıyam. Sən?
  [yahkh-shee-yahm. sahn?]
• Do you speak English?İngilis dilində danışırsınız?
  [een-gee-lees dee-leen-deh dah-nee-shuhr-suh-nuhz?]
• I don't understandAnlamıram
  [ahn-lah-muh-rahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseXahiş edirəm menyunu görmək istəyirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rehm mehn-yuh-noo gehr-mehk ees-teh-yee-rehm]
• I don't eat meatMən ət yemirəm
  [muhn aht yeh-mee-rehm]
• Cheers!Sağ ol!
  [sahg ohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdəmək istəyirəm, xahiş edirəm
  [uh-deh-mehk ees-teh-yee-rehm, khah-heesh eh-dee-rehm]

• Help!Kömək!
  [kuh-muhk]
• Go away!Uzaq get!
  [oo-zahk geh-t]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağırın!
  [poh-lee-see chah-uh-ruhn]
• Call a doctor!Həkim çağırın!
  [heh-keem chah-uh-ruhn]
• I'm lostYolumu itirmişəm
  [yohl-oo-moo ee-teer-mee-shuhm]
• I'm illXəstəyəm
  [khuh-stuh-yuhm]

• I'd like to buy...Almaq istəyirəm...
  [ahl-mahk ees-teh-yee-rehm]
• I'm just lookingSadəcə baxıram
  [sah-deh-jeh bahk-suh-rahm]
• How much is it?Neçəyədir?
  [neh-jeh-yeh-deer]
• That's too expensiveÇox bahadır
  [choh bah-hah-duhr]
• Can you lower the price?Qiyməti aşağı sala bilərsiniz?
  [kee-meh-tee ah-shah-uh sah-lah bee-lehr-suh-nuhz]

• What time is it?Saat necədir?
  [saht neh-jeh-deer]
• It's one o'clockBir saatdır
  [beer sah-ah-deer]
• Half past (10)Onun yarısı
  [oh-noon yah-ruh-suh]
• MorningSəhər
  [seh-hehr]
• AfternoonGünorta
  [goon-or-tah]
• EveningAxşam
  [ahkh-shahm]
• YesterdayDünən
  [doo-nehn]
• TodayBu gün
  [boo goon]
• TomorrowSabah
  [sah-bah]
• 1Bir
  [beer]
• 2İki
  [ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [ooch]
• 4Dörd
  [dohrd]
• 5Beş
  [besh]
• 6Altı
  [ahl-tuh]
• 7Yeddi
  [yehd-dee]
• 8Səkkiz
  [sehk-keez]
• 9Doqquz
  [dohk-koos]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?...haradadır?
  [...hah-rah-duhr]
• What's the address?Ünvan necədir?
  [oon-vahn neh-jeh-deer]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Məni (xəritədə) göstərə bilərsiniz?
  [muh-nee (kheh-ree-teh-duh) gohs-teh-reh bee-lehr-suh-nuhz]
• When's the next (bus)?Növbəti (avtobus) neçədədir?
  [noev-beh-tee (ahv-toh-boos) neh-jeh-deer]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....-a)
  [beer bee-leht (ah)]

Fountain Square, known locally as 'Fountains Square,' has its roots in the late 19th century when Baku began transforming into a modern city. Originally a humble square, it was designed in 1866 and quickly became a social gathering point, reflecting the architectural influences of the time, including European styles that were being adopted across the Caucasus region.

Throughout the 20th century, Fountain Square underwent significant changes, particularly during the Soviet era when it became a central part of Baku's urban landscape. The square was adorned with various fountains and sculptures, which symbolized the aspirations of the Soviet regime. The square served as a venue for public gatherings, protests, and celebrations, thus playing an important role in the social and political life of the city.

After Azerbaijan regained independence in 1991, Fountain Square became a focal point for cultural revival. Artists, musicians, and performers began to frequent the square, transforming it into a lively cultural hub. This period marked a resurgence of national pride and the rediscovery of Azerbaijani heritage, with local festivals and art exhibitions frequently taking place in the square.

Today, Fountain Square is a vibrant mix of historical significance and modern leisure, surrounded by cafes, shops, and cultural venues. The square's fountains are iconic landmarks, and it serves as a meeting point for both locals and tourists. The ongoing preservation efforts aim to maintain the square's historical essence while accommodating contemporary needs, making it a symbol of Baku's evolving identity.

Fountain Square has played host to numerous significant events in recent years, including public celebrations, concerts, and political rallies. Notably, it has been a gathering place during national holidays and moments of social change, representing the voice of the people of Baku. Its role in contemporary Azerbaijani society underscores its importance as a cultural and social landmark.

Fountain Square is centrally located in Baku and is easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you're coming from the Baku Grand Prix area or the Flame Towers, you can walk to Fountain Square in about 15-20 minutes. For those coming from the Old City (Icherisheher), it's just a 10-minute walk. Public transportation options include the Baku Metro, with the nearest station being '28 May,' which is a few minutes away on foot. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city and provide a convenient way to reach Fountain Square.

Fountain Square is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. The area is surrounded by cafes, shops, and attractions, all within walking distance. For longer distances, you can use the Baku Metro, which has multiple stations nearby, or take a taxi or rideshare service. Public buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) also operate in the city, though they may be less convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the routes.

Fountain Square is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded spaces. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, particularly in busy areas like markets or public transport. It's advisable to avoid certain neighborhoods farther from the city center after dark, such as some parts of the Sabail region, where crime rates may be higher.

In case of an emergency, dial 102 for police assistance or 103 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Baku, with some located near Fountain Square. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies can be found in the area, often with English-speaking staff.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. In general, smart casual attire is acceptable in public areas. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs, especially in places of worship. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers and refrain from loud conversations. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at cafes and restaurants. Don't refuse food or drink offered to you, as it is considered rude.

To experience Fountain Square like a local, visit the nearby cafes and bakeries for a taste of Azerbaijani tea and sweets. Engage with local artisans in the area, particularly around the square, where you can find unique handmade crafts. Don't miss the evening ambiance as street performers often entertain crowds at night. For a unique experience, consider visiting the nearby Nizami Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and shopping opportunities.