About this experience
In the second half of the 19th century, the oil boom began in Baku. The newly minted magnates started inviting European architects to the city, dreaming of turning it into the 'Paris of the Caucasus'. You will learn about the challenging life and touching destinies of the oil barons, hear incredible love stories, and admire the luxurious architecture. You will also visit the house-museum of the Nobel brothers.
What to Expect
Magnificent Baku
You will see the most beautiful houses of the Azerbaijani capital: the 'Palace of Happiness' in Venetian style, the Rothschild brothers' office, the 'Baku Palace', the buildings of the City Hall and the Philharmonic. I will reveal who designed them, who owns them, and what interesting events are associated with them. We will also visit the ancient mansion of the millionaire oil industrialist Gaji Tagiyev. You will remember it for its grandiose domes and rich decoration combining Eastern and European styles.
Villa Petrolea and the White City
We will visit the unusual residential settlement Villa Petrolea, located in the suburbs of Baku, which was built in the late 19th century by the Nobel brothers. You will learn about how the famous Swedish family is connected to Azerbaijan and visit the museum dedicated to them. Additionally, we will stop by the White City — a district where modern, comfortable, and environmentally friendly housing is created on the site of outdated industrial facilities. I will tell you how it is described in a famous novel by Boris Akunin.
Organizational Details
- The tour is conducted in a car-pedestrian format. Transportation is included in the price.
- Tickets to the Tagiyev mansion are paid separately — $8 per person.
