Story of a Trailing Spouse: Baku...the Windy City

Maiden's Tower...landmark of Baku

Salaam,

Had the opportunity to visit Baku in June 2006, to accompany hubby on an official assignment in this beautiful capital city of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Flying time from Tehran to Baku only took us slightly just over one hour.

Baku or Baki in Azeri literally means a "city of winds", "wind blow" or "city on a hill", is really one of the most beautiful cities we've ever visited after the various other cities in Iran. After spending about a week in the city, exploring its rich culture and history, we found out Baku has all the major attractions the country could offer to foreign visitors, ranging from grand mansions to a walled old city, ancient buildings and interesting historical places. In fact Baku is actually made up of three cities - the old town, the boom town and the Soviet-built town.

From the top of Maiden Tower, the city's landmark, we could get the best view of Baku and the Caspian Sea. The Old Town can also be viewed from the tower, with its beautiful cobbled streets, narrow alleys and ancient building such as the Palace of Shirvanshahs.

With its beauty, richness, culture and geostrategic position in the south Caucasus, the country and the city in particular, is indeed blessed with so many qualities that will provide fond memories for visitors and has all the ingredients to become a popular tourists destination in the years to come.

Wassalam.