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Azikh Cave: A Window into Prehistoric Azerbaijan

Explore Azikh Cave in Azerbaijan: Journey through prehistoric history in one of Eurasia's oldest human settlements, featuring stunning cave formations.

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Azikh Cave, near Azikh village in Azerbaijan, is a six-cave complex and one of Eurasia's oldest known human habitation sites. This prehistoric site offers a glimpse into early human life and the region's geological history, with artifacts and fossils spanning nearly 1.2 million years.

A brief summary to Azıx Mağarası

  • JX9Q+MCV, Azikh, AZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces inside the cave.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the cave can be significantly cooler than the outside temperature.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain in-depth knowledge about the cave's history and geology.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Fuzuli, head northwest towards Azikh village. The cave is located approximately 14 km from Fuzuli. Be prepared for local roads that may be unpaved or in poor condition. Limited parking is available near the cave entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Fuzuli, a taxi or ride-share is a practical option. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as meters may not be common. Expect to pay around 10-15 AZN for a one-way trip to Azikh Cave. Confirm the driver knows the location.

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Discover more about Azıx Mağarası

Azikh Cave, also known as Azokh Cave, is a remarkable six-cave complex nestled near the village of Azikh in the Khojavend District of Azerbaijan. This prehistoric site holds immense significance as one of the oldest known human habitation sites in Eurasia, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of early humans and the geological history of the region. Discovered in 1960 by Azerbaijani archaeologist Mammadali Huseynov, Azikh Cave has since become a focal point for archaeological research. Excavations have revealed a rich tapestry of artifacts and fossils, spanning nearly 1.2 million years of human history. The cave's ancient layers have yielded stone tools, remnants of hearths, and fossilized bones of various animals, providing invaluable insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of our ancestors. The most significant discovery within Azikh Cave was the unearthing of a Neanderthal-like jawbone in 1968. Estimated to be around 300,000 years old, this fossil is one of the oldest proto-human remains found in the Caucasus, solidifying Azikh Cave's position as a crucial site for understanding human evolution and migration patterns. The discovery of the jawbone led to the coining of the term "Azykh Man," further emphasizing the cave's importance in the study of early human history. Azikh Cave itself is a sprawling complex, encompassing approximately 8,000 square meters and featuring a network of maze-like passageways stretching nearly 600 meters. The cave comprises eight large halls or grottos, some with impressive domed ceilings reaching heights of 20-25 meters. Throughout the cavern, visitors can admire stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, adding to the cave's natural beauty and allure. The cave's strategic location within a natural corridor connecting Africa, Europe, and Asia has made it a significant site for understanding early human migration patterns. Archaeological evidence suggests that Azikh Cave was inhabited by various human groups over extended periods, with each leaving their unique mark on the cave's cultural layers.

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