Plizio Visual Lab
Bibi-Heybat Mosque
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a magnificent Shia shrine located in the Baku bay. The current structure is a faithful recreation of the original 13th-century mosque, which was destroyed by the Soviet authorities in 1936. The reconstruction was completed in the late 1990s, and the result is a memorable example of classic Shirvan architecture. The mosque houses the mausoleum of Ukeyma Khanum, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, making it a significant pilgrimage center for Muslims in the region. The complex is adorned with intricate tilework, golden domes, and fine calligraphy, standing out impressively against the coastal landscape. The restoration of the mosque is seen as an important symbol of the revival of Azerbaijan's religious and cultural identity post-independence.
- Location: Azerbaijan
- Top sights: Qaradağ Mayakı · Mədəniyyət Evi Bibi Heybət · Bibi Heybat Mosque
- Nearby: Novxanı (17 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
Bibi-Heybat Mosque is an active place of worship and open to visitors outside prayer times. The courtyard and prayer hall can be visited.
Typical hours
Mosques in Azerbaijan are typically open from early morning until evening, with breaks during prayer times. Women should wear a headscarf and modest clothing.
Photography
Indoor photography is often allowed as long as you don't disturb prayers and no flash. The richly decorated domes and tiles are photogenic.
Time needed
A visit to the mosque typically takes 30-45 minutes. Take time to admire the architecture and gardens.
Combine with
Combine the mosque with a visit to the nearby Heydar Aliyev Center or the Flame Towers. Both are within a 15-minute drive.
Getting there
The mosque is in southern Baku, about 30 minutes from the city center. Easily reachable by taxi or public buses.
Insider tip
Visit the mosque at dusk when the lighting is particularly beautiful. Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Geography
Facts
- The original mosque was built in the 13th century.
- It was completely destroyed by the Soviets in 1936.
- The current building is a restoration completed in 1998.
- The architectural style is representative of the Shirvan school.
- Alexandre Dumas described the mosque in his travel memoirs.
- It is a spiritual center for Muslims of the region.
- The mosque features three domes and two minarets.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bibi-Heybat Mosque (13)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the mosque accessible to non-Muslims?
Yes, visitors are welcome, please respect the dress code.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, shoulders and knees must be covered.
Is photography allowed?
In the complex yes, in the prayer hall ask respectfully.
What is the best time of day?
Beautiful at sunset.
Is admission free?
Yes.
Bibi-Heybat Mosque: where is it located?
Bibi-Heybat Mosque is located in Azerbaijan.
Bibi-Heybat Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Qaradağ Mayakı, Mədəniyyət Evi Bibi Heybət, Bibi Heybat Mosque.
Bibi-Heybat Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Bibi-Heybat Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a magnificent Shia shrine located in the Baku bay.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Azerbaijan →
Nearby cities
Baku
Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan and the largest city on the Caspian Sea.
🗺️
Zire
A quiet settlement at the eastern tip of the Absheron Peninsula, known for eco-tourism and olives.
Türkan
A coastal village on the Absheron Peninsula, famous for its sandy beaches and agriculture.
Corat
A historic settlement on the Caspian Sea coast, famous for its traditional cuisine and proximity to the sandy beaches of Novkhani.
Ləhiş bağları
An exclusive villa district on the Absheron Peninsula by the Caspian Sea, popular for its summer residences.
🗺️
Sahil
A coastal settlement in the Garadagh district of Baku, situated on the Caspian Sea shore.
Üzümçülük Türkan
A coastal settlement on the Absheron Peninsula by the Caspian Sea, known for its quiet beaches and regional viticulture.
History & landmarks
Flame Towers
A striking trio of skyscrapers in Baku, shaped like flickering flames.
Baku Crystal Hall
A multi-purpose indoor arena on the coast of the Caspian Sea, known for hosting the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest.
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
A unique museum shaped like a rolled carpet, housing the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
An outstanding 15th-century architectural complex, considered a pearl of Azerbaijani architecture.
Heydar Aliyev Center
A world-renowned cultural center designed by Zaha Hadid, famous for its flowing, wave-like architecture.
More places
Baku Shipyard
Baku Shipyard builds and repairs a variety of specialized vessels for the Caspian Sea's oil and gas industry.
Baku Central Botanical Garden
A scientific garden in the capital showcasing a large collection of plant species from around the world.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
A masterpiece of 15th-century Azerbaijani architecture that served the rulers of the Shirvan region.
Baku Boulevard
An expansive coastal park along the Caspian Sea, ideal for walks and family outings.
Maiden Tower
A historical monument in the Old City of Baku, dating back to the 12th century and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Baku Zoo
The oldest zoological garden in the country, home to a variety of local and exotic animal species.
Heydar Aliyev Baku Oil Refinery
The Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery in Baku processes crude oil into various petroleum products and is the main refinery in Azerbaijan.
Balakhany Oil Field
The Balakhany Oil Field on the Absheron Peninsula is one of the oldest industrially developed oil fields in the world, where the Baku oil…