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Bazar Square: Echoes of History in Baku's Heart

Discover Baku's ancient heart at Bazar Square, a Silk Road nexus of history, religion, and culture in the UNESCO-listed Old City.

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Bazar Square, also known as Khanqah complex, is a historic religious-architectural site in Baku's Old City, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Discovered during excavations in 1964, it offers a glimpse into Baku's past as a Silk Road trading post and religious center.

A brief summary to Bazar Square

  • 9R8P+HP8, Baku, Sabayil, AZ

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Explore the surrounding shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs, offering a glimpse into traditional Azerbaijani artistry.
  • Sample local snacks from street vendors to savor authentic Azerbaijani flavors at affordable prices.
  • Check local event calendars for cultural events and festivals often hosted in the square, adding vibrancy to your visit.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs for a comprehensive exploration of Baku's Old City.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Fountain Square, head south towards Nizami Street, the main road. Continue until you reach the intersection with Azadlig Avenue (Freedom Square area). Turn left onto Azadlig Avenue and walk straight for about 10 minutes until you reach Bazar Square. Look for the prominent market area with stalls and vendors.

  • Public Transport

    From Fountain Square, walk to the bus stop at the intersection of Nizami Street and Azadlig Avenue. Take bus #7 or #11. The fare is approximately 0.30 AZN, payable via BakıKart. Get off at the 'Bazar Square' stop, where the market area will be directly in front of you. A BakıKart can be purchased at metro stations and bus stops for 2 AZN.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber, or hail a local taxi. Provide the driver with the address 'Bazar Square, Icherisheher'. The fare from central Baku typically ranges between 5-10 AZN, but confirm the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Bazar Square

Bazar Square, or Khanqah complex, is a mesmerizing historical site located in the heart of Baku's Old City, Icherisheher. Dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, this ancient square offers a profound glimpse into the city's rich past as a vital trading post along the Silk Road and a significant religious center. Discovered during archaeological excavations in 1964, the square is located on Kichik Gala street, near the Maiden Tower. The site's structure, with its arcades and pavement, bears a resemblance to Al-Masjid Al-Ḥarām, suggesting its importance as a sacred place. The unearthing of 52 graves within the area further supports this theory, with many believing these to be the final resting places of individuals who wished to be buried in a holy location or near one. Walking through Bazar Square is like stepping back in time. The meticulously restored stone arcades provide a sense of the square's original layout and grandeur. Intricate carvings adorn the structures, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the period. Memorial plaques, animal sculptures, and ancient gravestones add to the atmosphere, each telling a silent story of the people and events that shaped Baku's history. During the era of the Silk Road, Bazar Square was a bustling nexus of commerce and cultural exchange between the East and West. Merchants from distant lands gathered here to trade goods, share ideas, and forge connections. The square witnessed a myriad of pivotal events and became a melting pot of diverse influences, contributing to Baku's unique cultural identity. The architecture surrounding Bazar Square is a rich tapestry that blends Islamic motifs with Soviet-era designs, reflecting the complex layers of Baku's history. Early caravanserais, which once provided lodging for traders and their goods, stand alongside modern renovations aimed at preserving the site while adapting it to contemporary needs. In addition to its commercial and religious significance, Bazar Square has also played host to significant political and social events throughout history. During the oil boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the square became a focal point for entrepreneurs and workers who flocked to the city, dramatically transforming its demographic and architectural landscape. In the Soviet period, the square was often the site of parades and public gatherings, demonstrating the might and ideologies of the time. Today, Bazar Square has been revitalized as a vibrant public space that honors its rich heritage.

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