Binagadi asphalt lake, Tar pit in urban Baku, Azerbaijan.
Binagadi is a tar pit near Baku where natural asphalt seeps continuously from the ground, creating a dark, sticky surface that covers the site. The location sits elevated above the surrounding urban landscape and contains layers of geological material that tell the story of the region's underground composition.
The site was first identified in the 1930s and quickly attracted researchers interested in its geological features and what lay beneath the surface. Over the following decades, the area came under official protection and underwent systematic study by scientists.
The scientific value of Binagadi extends across the Caucasus region through its extensive collection of preserved Quaternary animal fossils from ancient times.
The location is within reach of Baku and can be visited year-round, though dry months offer better ground conditions for walking. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip since the surface remains slippery and sticky throughout the year.
The area contains remains of animals from very ancient times that were preserved in the tar, helping scientists understand what lived in this region thousands of years ago. These fossils provide direct evidence of the creatures that roamed the landscape in prehistoric times.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
