(MENAFN- AzerNews)
Laman Ismayilova Read more
Every destination has its own hidden gems that can be discovered
by curious travelers. Azerbaijan is packed with charming sights
worthy of attention.
Azerbaijan is often called the Land of Fire for several reasons.
In ancient times, the cult of fire was widespread in
Azerbaijan.
People considered the appearance of fiery springs to be a
manifestation of divine power, worshipped them, and built altars
and temples.
Nowadays, people call Azerbaijan the Land of Fire, thanks to its
vast supplies of oil and natural gas.
If you want to learn more about the fire cult in Azerbaijan,
then visit Yanar Dag in Surakhani village.
This natural gas fire has been continuously burning for
centuries and was even mentioned by Marco Polo during his
travels.
Since ancient times, fire worshippers from various parts of the
world have gathered in this centuries-old spot.
It burns steadily due to the constant speed of gas from the
subsurface. The flames rise to a height of 10 metres and emanate
from vents in sandstone formations.
In 2007, Yanardag State Historical, Cultural, and Natural
Reserve was established by presidential decree. The reserve
operates under the control of the Azerbaijan State Tourism
Agency.
After a major overhaul between 2017 and 2019, the Yanar Dag
Museum and Yanar Dag Cromlech Stone Exhibition were launched in
this area.
Ateshgah, or Fire Temple, is another significant Zoroastrian
site in Azerbaijan.
Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, this temple is an ancient
Hindu castle-like religious edifice in a suburb of greater Baku
that was initially recognised as a Zoroastrian fire worship
place.
Zoroastrians monks highly rated the mystical significance of the
inextinguishable fire and came here to worship it.
The four holy elements of their belief were: ateshi (fire), badi
(air), abi (water), and heki (earth). The complex was turned into a
museum in 1975.
The temple complex was transformed into a museum in 1975 and was
nominated for inclusion in UNESCO's List of World Heritage Sites in
1998. It was later declared a state historical-architectural
reserve on December 19, 2007.
The Land of Fire can be a great place to learn more about
historical sites.
MENAFN13112023000195011045ID1107418116
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.