Bakunians take trip to Caucasus pearl of Zagatala
By Amina Nazarli
The project entitled “From region to the capital” continues to familiarize Baku’s residents and tourists with the rich and ancient culture of Azerbaijani regions.
This time the guests gathered at the Azerbaijan State Theatre of Young Spectators on November 19 to familiarize with the culture of the northwestern region of Azerbaijan -- Zagatala, located on the southern slopes of the Major Caucasus mountains.
Addressing the opening ceremony, First Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Vagif Aliyev and Head of Zagatala City Executive Power Mubariz Ahmadzade highlighted the state care towards the development of the regions and the preservation of ancient national heritage, monuments, nature reserves, the development of tourism potential, and modernization of the infrastructure.
The guest later enjoyed exposition acquainting visitors with the tourist potential, historical and cultural heritage of the region. The exhibition presented art works of masters of applied art, prints, ethnic dishes, and the region’s agricultural production.
Organized by the Culture and Tourism Ministry, until now, the capital has hosted days dedicated to the Masalli, Gabala, Guba, Sheki, Gedabek, Ismayilli, Shamkir, and Khacmaz regions.
A beautiful green city, Zagatala is the region that has all conditions favorable for promoting ecotourism. Visitors here can travel on foot and horseback along the tourist trails to observe the different species of animals and birds as well as to take photographs and videos in the reserve.
There are several suitable places for resting and lodging for tourists on these routes. The climate of Zaqatala makes this city an ideal mountain-climate resort. The ancient fortress near the Zaqatala city was built during the Middle Ages. The region has several tourist and recreation centers and hotels.
Throughout the region there are gardens of hazelnut, walnut, apple, dogwood, loquat, persimmon.
Zaqatala is an international region where Azerbaijanis live alongside the people of more than 20 ethnic communities, including the Avars, Lezgins, Tsakhurs, Russians, Tatars, and Ingiloys.
Numerous historical and cultural monuments can be found in the region. Other attractions are the XVIII century mosques in Qalal and Gozbarakh villages, the Alban tower dating back to the XII century, and the XVIII century mosque in Mazikh village, two monuments built in the XIV century in the village of Kebeloba, the Peri Tower in Yukhari Chardakhlar village, the XIII century Albanian Tower in Pashan village, and the Chingozqala tower from the XIV century in Jar village, among others.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on
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