5 Most Beautiful Mosques in Baku

The Azerbaijani capital of Baku is a curious mix of modern buildings and rich Islamic history. Although the city is known to have futuristic Flame Towers and a colorful Caspian Sea promenade, it also has some of the most astonishing mosques that incorporate centuries of piety and work. The mosques of Baku serve as the religious buildings and the representations of the history and culture of this city. In case you need to visit these gems and not bother with the organizational side of the process, Budget Baku tour deals will assist you to see these architectural wonders at a reasonable speed and price.

Here are the 5 Most Beautiful Mosques in Baku.

1. Heydar Mosque

The Heydar Mosque is one of the most prominent and largest mosques in Baku constructed in 2014. The grandiose building, named after the former president of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev, takes up a huge area boasting the capability of hosting thousands of worshippers. Its white stone facade, with its several domes is brilliant in the sunlight, and the minarets tower against the skyline of the city. Its interior is no less impressive with its detailed Islamic calligraphy, beautiful chandeliers and peaceful prayer hall that makes the visitors feel impressed with it.

2. Taza Pir Mosque

Taza Pir Mosque is one of the most famous and old mosques in Baku that was built at the beginning of the 20th century. It is located on a hill and one can view the city panoramically as it is a beacon of Islamic tradition. Its cream-colored stone in an elegant style topped with golden domes is a beautiful mixture of the Eastern and Azerbaijani architecture. Once you enter, you are met with a cozy and calm setting, the walls are adorned with exquisite designs and prayer rooms are lavish. Over the years, Taza Pir has been well maintained and thus it has become a major cultural and spiritual heritage site both to the locals and visitors alike.

3. Bibi-Heybat Mosque

The Bibi-Heybat Mosque cannot be left out of any list of mosques in Baku. It was constructed originally in 13 th century in the Shirvanshah dynasty but was destroyed in 1930s and then rebuilt in the 1990s. The mosque is named after Ukeyma Khanum, the relative of Prophet Muhammad, a tomb of whom is located in its walls. It is a visually appealing place because of its turquoise domes and exquisitely modeled minarets. People usually visit the place not only to see how beautiful it is but also to feel the spiritual power that is in the air.

4. Ajdarbey Mosque

Another good example of Islamic architecture in Azerbaijan is Ajdarbey Mosque that was finished in 1912. It is a reminder of the religious and cultural history of Baku with its unique single dome and a high minaret. The mosque is constructed of locally sourced limestone, which is warm and natural in colour and glowing in the evening light. The prayer hall is plain and classy on the inside and prayer and reflection are the priorities of the worshippers. Although it is not as magnificent as other mosques, the Ajdarbey is still a very calm and cozy experience that many people love.

5. Muhammad Mosque (Siniq Qala Mosque)

The Muhammad Mosque is situated in the Old City (Icherisheher) of Baku and is one of the oldest preserved mosques in Azerbaijan dating back to the 11th century. It is popularly referred to as the Siniq Qala Mosque locally and it became well known due to its historical minaret, which was partly demolished during an attack in the 18th century- hence the name Broken Tower. Although this mosque is small, it has a rich history and is a place that one should visit in case he/she is a lover of history. It is a feeling of a time travel and getting a view of the medieval Islamic history of the city when entering the mosque.

The Mosques in Baku Why Visit?

Baku mosques are not only places of worship, but they are alive monuments which narrate the history of the spiritual life, architectural development and cultural pride of Baku city. Whether it is the Heydar Mosque with its enormous size, the Muhammad Mosque with its historical touch or the spiritual calmness of Taza Pir, each of the mosques is a unique experience. Visiting them, one will have an opportunity to get closer to the core of the Azerbaijani culture and get to know the Islamic traditions of this nation in person.

Tips on Visiting Mosques in Baku

Dress Modestly: Women can be required to wear a headscarf and shoulders and knees should be covered.

Respect Prayer Times: Do not visit during prayer times as this can be hectic.

Local Guide: You can hire a guide who can give you insight on history and culture.

Photography Etiquette: It is always good to seek permission to take pictures within prayer places.

Conclusion

The Baku mosques are the eternal landmarks of religion, architecture, and culture. All of them present their own narratives, including old buildings in the Old City and the new architectural wonders that can be found in the skyline. By visiting them, you will get a better insight into the history of Azerbaijan and the long Islamic culture. To have a pleasant and enjoyable trip, think about making Budget Baku tour deals to visit these mosques and other attractions in a convenient manner and at an excellent price. By doing so, you will have more than a vacation in Baku you will be able to visit the spiritual and cultural core of the city.