Boyuk Zira

Boyuk Zira, often referred to as Nargin Island, is a historically highly significant island in the Caspian Sea, located in the picturesque Baku Bay of Azerbaijan. The most famous and prominent landmark of the island is its historic lighthouse, which has tirelessly guided ships navigating the challenging Caspian waters toward the harbor for many decades.

However, the island looks back on a complex and often dark history. During World War I, Boyuk Zira served as a notorious prisoner-of-war camp, and later, during the Soviet era, the island was utilized for various top-secret military purposes. This harsh background lends the location a palpable historical gravity today.

Presently, the island is completely uninhabited but remains a fascinating place for historians and the curious alike. The solitary lighthouse stands as a silent witness to the island's turbulent past and Baku's proud maritime heritage. Although direct access to the island requires special arrangements and boat charters, the distinctive silhouette of Boyuk Zira can frequently be admired from the coastal promenade in Baku, adding a touch of mystery and deep history to the bay's scenic skyline.