Azerbaijan is an interesting country where you can enjoy various sights, experience a unique history and culture. Sumgait, one of the large cities in the country and the country’s industrial hub located to the north of the country’s capital Baku, is a must visit with its beautiful coastline along the Caspian Sea and fascinating blend of parks, museums, and architectural landmarks. This is the perfect city for tourists who want to go beyond the typical tourist destinations, and discover more about Azerbaijan. If you are considering a vacation, obtaining an Azerbaijan Visa is the beginning of visiting Sumgait and the other parts of this beautiful country.
Moreover, Sumgait is a great place for tourists who prefer to avoid the noisy Baku but there is much to do there. Starting from the Heydar Aliyev Park, which is more of a park to the Sumgait Boulevard that is located along the seashore, there are several places of interest in the city that portrays the natural and cultural endowment of Azerbaijan. If you are up for a visit to Sumgait and have historical interests visiting the museum that talks about the industrial past of Sumgait will be of significance, and if you are a fun of swimming in the Caspian sea or prefer to shop at local markets then the places further add on to the beauty of the city making it an important city to visit while in Azerbaijan.
Below are the top ten places that you should see in Sumgait.
1. Sumgait Boulevard
Sumgait Boulevard runs through the Caspian Sea coastal and interestingly, there are opportunities for recreation by the sea. Designed for a relaxed walking or a family’s visit, the boulevard is equipped with benches, cafes and small fountains. People living in Sumgait and visitors love the view, as the park remains one of the most popular places for a leisurely stroll.
2. Heydar Aliyev Park
It is a monumental park which is devoted to the former president of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev; the territory of the park is equipped with green zones, walking paths and recreation facilities. There are also other wonderful structures such as statues, fountains and wonderful landscapes of the park which makes the park suitable for relaxation. Arguably, it is among the most popular places within the city for those who want to have a quiet place for a walk or recreation.
3. Sumgait History Museum
For the purpose to get more information about Sumgait’s cultural and historical background, Sumgait History Museum is a good place to visit. It is a place where one can find many relics of the city, information about the industrialization of the city and its position during soviet years. It was an educational one since it focused on Sumgait’s development from a settlement to an industrial city.
4. Sumgait Mosque
Sumgait Mosque or Juma Mosque is a beautiful mosque and an attractive religious structure. The structure, style and layouts are Islamic and it is a lovely place to visit as it is calm and quiet. Thus, guests can also enjoy the architecture, as well as discover the religious aspect of Sumgait’s life.
5. Youth Park
Youth Park can be visited with family or friends during a family leisure or a friendly get-together. This colourful park provides play areas, grassy areas and sporting amenities for children and adults alike. This park features natural landscapes, and recreational facilities that attract many people especially during the weekends.
6. Nizami Park
The park named after the great Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi is a beautiful area that includes gardens, benches, and sculptures reflecting the Azerbaijan’s culture. It is a perfect place for a stroll or just come for an afternoon without any noise and disturbances, it also has an artistic view of the city.
7. Seaside Beaches
There are several really wonderful beaches in Sumgait, which is located on the territory of the Caspian Sea coast, so it is possible to have a rest, swim, and engage in other activities on the coast. In summer people of all ages, citizens and tourists, go to these beaches for recreational purposes. There are some beaches which are crowded and touristic, and there are some which are empty and quite, for every kind of people.
8. Sumgait Cultural House
The Sumgait Cultural House is one of the most famous organizations for art and culture in the city. It stages different shows ranging from Azerbaijani music and dance, through drama to ballet. If you want to look at the cultural side of Azerbaijan, then you should look at the programs on the Cultural House for the performances or exhibitions.
9. Victory Park
The second park in Sumgait is the Victory Park which was established to honour the World War II heroes. The park has statues and other installations dedicated to the soldiers and it is a good place to ponder about history. Laid out with gardens and pathways, the place encourages thoughts and reflection while visiting the Victory Park.
10. Shopping and Local Markets
Sumgait has a variety of shopping areas from the standard Bazaars selling traditional articles to the modern Mall. Going to these markets is a good way to communicate with the people and make a purchase of souvenirs. It is full of home-made products, gifts, food and other products that are characteristic for Azerbaijani people.
Conclusion
Sumgait, Azerbaijan might not be as famous as Baku, but it is home to stunning nature, historical sites, and friendly atmosphere by the shore of the Caspian Sea. With its parks and historical places, the noisy and bright bazaar, beautiful seashore, Sumgait gives a real idea of traveling through Azerbaijan. It is a place that one can relax, discover and interact with the local community and have exciting moments wherever they are.
For tourists who decide to come to the country, Sumgait is an interesting addition to any Azerbaijan tour, no matter the purpose of the trip. Make sure your Azerbaijan Visa is in order and get ready to explore the less obvious sights of this lovely city. Sumgait is waiting for you with its cordiality and hospitality and interesting sights and impressions which will give you the idea about Azerbaijan and its unique beauty.