Things to Do in Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

Baku, Azerbaijan's capital, sits dramatically on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, where centuries of oil wealth have created a fascinating blend of ancient Islamic architecture and bold modern design. The city's Old Town, Icherisheher, contains medieval mosques and caravanserais within fortress walls, while the newer districts showcase striking contemporary buildings like the Flame Towers that dominate the skyline. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum stands as one of the city's most distinctive cultural landmarks, housed in a building designed to resemble a rolled carpet - a fitting tribute to the country's renowned weaving traditions. The museum itself represents Azerbaijan's deep connection to carpet weaving, an art form that dates back over a thousand years in this region. The collection spans from ancient fragments to contemporary pieces, showcasing the intricate patterns and techniques that have made Azerbaijani carpets prized worldwide. Beyond the carpets, Baku offers visitors a chance to experience a culture that bridges Europe and Asia, with influences from Persian, Turkish, and Russian traditions creating something uniquely Azerbaijani.

Baku's dining scene reflects its position between Europe and Asia, with excellent local specialties like plov (saffron rice with meat), dolma, and fresh Caspian sturgeon when available. The Old City contains atmospheric restaurants in converted caravanserais, while Nizami Street offers everything from traditional teahouses to modern cafes. For whatever reason, the city has embraced international cuisine enthusiastically - you'll find decent Italian, Turkish, and even Japanese restaurants alongside places serving authentic Azerbaijani fare. Street food includes fresh bread from tandoor ovens and sweet pastries that make perfect snacks while sightseeing.

Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather, with warm days and cool evenings perfect for walking around the city. Summer can be quite hot and humid due to the Caspian location, though the sea breeze provides some relief. Winter is mild compared to much of the region but can be windy and gray. Worth noting that Novruz (Persian New Year) in March brings festivities but also crowds, while summer sees the most international visitors despite the heat.