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Kapellhaus: A German Cultural Oasis in Baku

Experience the cultural fusion of Germany and Azerbaijan at Baku's Kapellhaus, a historic center hosting diverse events and promoting enduring ties.

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Kapellhaus, located on 28 May Street in Baku, is a beautifully restored cultural center that stands as a symbol of the enduring ties between Azerbaijan and Germany. Originally built in 1908 as part of a Lutheran church complex, it served Baku's German community. Today, it hosts a variety of cultural events, promoting dialogue and mutual appreciation between the two nations.

A brief summary to Kapellhaus

Local tips

  • Check the event schedule in advance, as Kapellhaus hosts a variety of concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events.
  • Explore the surrounding 28 May Street, which offers a mix of shops, cafes, and architecture, providing a glimpse into Baku's modern urban life.
  • Consider attending a classical music concert to experience the venue's excellent acoustics.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kapellhaus is located on 28 May Street in central Baku, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby landmarks. From Fountain Square, walk east along Nizami Street, then turn right onto 28 May Street. Kapellhaus will be on your left. Walking from Fountain Square takes approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to Kapellhaus is 28 May, which is a major transportation hub in Baku. From the station, walk west along 28 May Street for about 5 minutes to reach Kapellhaus. A single metro fare costs 0.30 AZN and requires a BakiKart, which can be purchased and topped up at the metro station. Buses also run along 28 May Street; a bus ride also costs 0.30 AZN with a BakiKart.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Baku and offer a convenient way to reach Kapellhaus. You can hail a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. A short taxi ride from the city center to Kapellhaus typically costs between 3-7 AZN, depending on traffic and the distance. Be sure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Kapellhaus

Kapellhaus is more than just a building; it's a cultural bridge that embodies the rich German-Azerbaijani cultural exchange. Established in 1908 as an adjunct to a Lutheran church, it was a vibrant center for the German community in Baku, which grew significantly during the city's oil boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. German entrepreneurs, engineers, and skilled workers played a vital role in Baku's rapid industrialization, contributing to its architectural and cultural landscape. However, the idyllic existence of the German community was disrupted by the tumultuous events of the 20th century. Following the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, the Soviet government nationalized religious institutions, and the Kapellhaus was shut down in 1920. The building fell into disrepair, and the German community faced increasing scrutiny and repression. The darkest chapter occurred during World War II when ethnic Germans were deported to Central Asia and Siberia. With Azerbaijan's independence in 1991, efforts were made to restore German-Azerbaijani relations. The Kapellhaus was reconstructed with support from the Azerbaijani government and the German Federal Foreign Office, reopening in 2000 as the German-Azerbaijani Cultural Association. Today, Kapellhaus hosts concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings, language courses, and other educational events. Its excellent acoustics make it a popular venue for musical performances. Kapellhaus stands as a reminder of the historical German influence in Azerbaijan and a dynamic hub where both heritages are celebrated.

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