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Ateshgah of Baku
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monument
The Ateshgah of Baku, often called the Fire Temple, is a fascinating religious monument on the Absheron Peninsula. This castle-like structure was built in the 17th and 18th centuries by Indian settlers in Baku who were Hindus and Sikhs. However, the temple was erected on a site considered sacred by Zoroastrians for millennia, due to the eternal fires produced by natural gas sources. The central element is an altar with an eternal flame, surrounded by a complex of cells where pilgrims and ascetics once lived. The flame was fed by a natural gas leak until Soviet exploitation of the resources depleted the source; today it is maintained artificially. The Ateshgah is a unique testament to the convergence of different cultures and religions along the Silk Road.
- Location: Azerbaijan
- Top sights: At@sgah M@b@di · S@hidl@r Abid@si · Suraxani Dair@si
- Nearby: Bilgah (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 17 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 15 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 13 | 22 | 25 | 17 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Ateshgah of Baku is a historic fire temple accessible as a museum. You can visit the central sanctuary and surrounding buildings.
Typical hours
Opening hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during daylight. It is advisable to check exact times in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed indoors and outdoors, but without flash. Tripod shots are only allowed with permission.
Time needed
A visit usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. For a thorough exploration, allow one hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Yanar Dag (burning mountain) and Gobustan National Park. The Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku is also worth a visit.
Getting there
Ateshgah is about 30 kilometers east of Baku and reachable by bus or taxi. Buses depart regularly from the Baku bus station.
Insider tip
Visit the temple in the late afternoon to see the natural gas flame in the best light. Bring a water bottle as it can get hot outside.
Geography
Facts
- The complex was built in the 17th-18th centuries.
- It was used by Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian worshippers.
- The name 'Ateshgah' means 'home of fire'.
- The central flame was originally fed by a natural gas vent.
- The complex has a pentagonal shape with a central courtyard.
- It ceased to be a place of worship after 1883.
- It was converted into a museum in 1975.
- The site was nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status in 1998.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Ateshgah of Baku (10)
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Dance school in Baku.
G@ncl@r Evi
Theatre in Baku.
M@d@niyy@t Sarayi S@ttar B@hlulzad@
Palace of Culture in Baku, named after Səttar Bəhlulzadə.
Heyd@r @liyev abid@
Monument to Heydər Əliyev in Baku.
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Heyd@r @liyev Muzeyi🏛 museum
Museum in Baku, dedicated to Heydər Əliyev.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the Ateshgah?
In the suburb of Suraxanı, near Baku.
How long is a tour?
Approx. 45-60 minutes.
Are photos allowed?
Yes, everywhere.
Is it child friendly?
Yes, the history is visual.
Can you buy souvenirs?
Yes, there is a shop at the entrance.
Ateshgah of Baku: where is it located?
Ateshgah of Baku is located in Azerbaijan.
Ateshgah of Baku: what is there to see?
Highlights include At@sgah M@b@di, S@hidl@r Abid@si, Suraxani Dair@si.
Ateshgah of Baku: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Ateshgah of Baku: why is it worth visiting?
The Ateshgah of Baku, often called the Fire Temple, is a fascinating religious monument on the Absheron Peninsula.
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