Palace of Seyid Mirbabayev, French Renaissance palace in Azneft Square, Baku, Azerbaijan
The Palace of Seyid Mirbabayev is a city palace in Azneft Square with French Renaissance elements displayed across its entire facade. The structure features decorative stonework and architectural details that match the European taste of its era.
Built between 1893 and 1895 by architect Pavel Shternberg, the palace initially belonged to Aramyan before oil magnate Seyid Mirbabayev purchased it. The purchase established the building's lasting identity in the city.
The building shows how oil wealth shaped Baku's architecture, as wealthy businessmen incorporated European styles into their homes. Its decorated stone facade reflected the tastes of rich owners who displayed their power through elaborate construction.
The building is now occupied by the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan and underwent major restoration work in the 1990s. The exterior is visible from the street, though the interior is typically not open to visitors.
The building once housed the British Consulate on its first floor during the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan era. This use ended when the Bolsheviks seized the property.
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