ISMAYILLI

Ismayilli – The Mountain Pearl of Azerbaijan

Location

• Ismayilli District is located in the northeastern part of Azerbaijan, on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

• It lies about 185 km from Baku.

• The territory is mostly mountainous and foothill, rich in forests, rivers, and valleys.

History:

• Ancient settlements, burial mounds, and fortress remains have been discovered in Ismayilli.

• Historical sources indicate that ancient Caucasian Albanian tribes once inhabited this region.

• The district is home to unique medieval villages such as Basqal, Lahij, and Ivanovka.

Nature

• Ismayilli is famous for its natural beauty: mountains, gorges, springs, forests, and waterfalls are widespread here.

• Lahij village – known for its ancient copper craftsmanship, included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

• Basqal village – historically an important center of Azerbaijani silk production.

• Ismayilli State Reserve and the Gabala–Ismayilli Forests are attractive places for eco-tourism and hiking.

Landmarks

• Lahij Village – with its stone-paved streets, ancient houses, and handicrafts, it is a living museum for tourists.

• Basqal Settlement – a historic silk-making center.

• Ivanovka Village – one of the few places preserving old Russian rural traditions in Azerbaijan.

• Fit Mountain, Mastan Waterfall, and Buynuz Fortress – fascinating spots for nature and history lovers.

Culture

• Ismayilli is a multicultural region where Azerbaijanis, Lezgins, Tats, Russians, and other ethnic groups live together in harmony.

• Lahij’s copper craftsmanship and Basqal’s silk-weaving tradition are true gems of Azerbaijani folk art.

Economy

• The local economy is mainly based on agriculture: viticulture, grain cultivation, livestock farming, and honey production.

• In recent years, tourism has developed rapidly, making Ismayilli one of the most popular mountain tourism regions of Azerbaijan.

• Ismayilli, with its historical monuments, unique villages, and breathtaking nature, is a destination where every visitor can experience both the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan and the beauty of its mountains.