Ganja

Ganja is a large city in western Azerbaijan that stretches along the river of the same name. Wide boulevards are lined with old plane trees, and buildings range from Russian classicism to Soviet modernism.

The settlement served as the capital of the Ganja Khanate until 1804, when it fell under Russian control. It was then renamed Yelizavetpol for over a century, regaining its original name after the Soviet period.

The city takes its name from an old Persian word meaning treasure, reflecting its role as a trading center. Main streets today bear the names of famous poets and thinkers, while small shops sell traditional sweets and handwoven carpets.

An international airport offers regular connections to Baku, Istanbul, and Moscow. Local buses run throughout the urban area and stop at major sights and residential neighborhoods.

The Bottle House from 1967 contains over 48,000 glass bottles in different colors and shapes built into the walls. The bottles form visible patterns and inscriptions that can be seen from the street.

Location: Azerbaijan

Inception: 660

Elevation above the sea: 408 m

Website: http://ganja-ih.gov.az

GPS coordinates: 40.68278,46.36056

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:39