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Fountains Square: Baku's Vibrant Heart

Experience Baku's vibrant heart at Fountains Square, a blend of history, culture, and modern allure in Azerbaijan's capital.

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Fountains Square, known locally as Fəvvarələr Meydanı, is the bustling heart of Baku, Azerbaijan. Adorned with numerous artistic fountains, it's a blend of historical significance, European sophistication, and modern charm, serving as a central gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Fountains Square

  • 20 Nigar Rafibeyli, Baku, Sabayil, 1005, AZ

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to see the fountains illuminated and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Explore the nearby Nizami Street for shopping and dining options.
  • Take a stroll to Baku Boulevard for scenic views of the Caspian Sea.
  • Check for local festivals and events happening in the square.
  • Be aware that parking is limited in the immediate area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Fountains Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many points in downtown Baku. From Icheri Sheher (Old City), walk northeast along Istiglaliyyat Street. The square will be on your left, a few blocks past the Nizami Literature Museum. From Baku Boulevard, walk inland, heading north towards Nizami Street; the square will be a short walk from there.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to Fountains Square is Sahil. From Sahil station, walk north along Nigar Rafibeyli Street for a few minutes until you reach the square. Several bus routes also service the area. A single metro or bus fare costs 0.30 AZN, payable with a BakuCard, which can be purchased and topped up at metro stations and some bus stops.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber are readily available in Baku. Simply enter "Fountains Square" as your destination. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 3-7 AZN, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Driving

    While driving to Fountains Square is possible, parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Limited street parking may be available, but it's often difficult to find. Consider parking in nearby garages or designated parking areas. There are underground parking options available near the square, such as the Garage Parking Fountain. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around 1-2 AZN per hour. Baku uses a digital parking payment system through the Azparking app.

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Discover more about Fountains Square

Fountains Square, or Fəvvarələr Meydanı, is Baku's dynamic cultural, social, and commercial hub. Its history dates back to 1868 when the area was designated for military drills and parades, earning it the nickname "Parapet". In pre-Soviet times, it connected Icherisheher (Old City) with the expanding suburbs. Initially barren due to water shortages, it was called the "Dry Garden". The situation changed in 1899 when Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev financed the Shollar Water Pipeline, bringing clean water to Baku. Although plans to build an Orthodox church or a monument to Alexander II were not realized, the area became a park after the Shollar system's completion in 1916. In the 1950s, architect I. Tikhomirov redesigned the square, merging it with Nizami Square and adding landscaping. A 1984 upgrade introduced the decorative fountains that gave the plaza its current name. A major renovation in 2010 added paving, restored facades, removed kiosks, and introduced bronze sculptures like "Girl on a Bench" and "Girl with an Umbrella". Red curved lanterns were also added. Today, Fountains Square is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and hotels. It hosts public festivals, shows, and celebrations. Nearby attractions include Icherisheher, Baku Boulevard, and the Nizami Museum of Literature.

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