History of Azerbaijan

The history of Azerbaijan goes back several thousands of years. The Azykh cave, the earliest habitation of man to ever discovered, is located in Azerbaijan, showing that the history of the country starts in the anthropoid period, the birthplace of mankind.

The testimony of many centuries since can be seen today in the country’s many monuments as well as its rich culture: habitations of the ancient Stone Age, ruins of antique and medieval cities, fortresses and towers, temples, mosques, mausoleums, palaces, caravanserais and other magnificent works of art and architecture can all be found across Azerbaijan.

The name 'Azerbaijan' is thought to be derived from the Persian phrase ‘Land of Fire’, referring both to its petroleum deposits, known since ancient times, and to its status as the centre of the ancient Zoroastrian faith.