Ateshgah Fire Temple, Baku

Observe traces of ancient fire worship at Ateshgah Fire Temple, which today functions as a museum. The large, walled, castle-like complex dates from the 17th and 18th centuries, although the location exploited Azerbaijan's gas-rich soil as far back as the 7th century CE, when Zoroastrians worshipped natural fire from the natural gas vent on site. The current temple was built by Baku's Hindu community and attrached fire worshippers from India and Persia. A museum documenting Hindu and Zoroastrian communities in Azerbaijan is arranged throughout the temple's restored rooms, where life-size mannequins in traditional clothing illustrate the daily life of the worshippers. Put Ateshgah Fire Temple and other Baku attractions into our Baku trip planner, and watch your holiday take shape.