Quba is a small city located in the Quba-Khachmaz region of Azerbaijan, on the northeastern slopes of the Shahdag Mountain range. The popularity of tourism in Quba is increasing among visitors every year. People from all over the world, as well as residents from other Azerbaijani cities, love to visit Quba. The city resembles a garden filled with apple trees and serves as a starting point for exploring the stunning Caucasus Mountains. It is also known for its carpet weaving and coexistence of various cultures, including Jewish communities. Quba is situated next to the Gudialchay River, surrounded by mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.
During tours in Quba, visitors can observe some small villages in the vicinity and purchase souvenirs.
Landscapes of Quba
Quba is located on the banks of a river called Gudialchay, at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level. It is famous for its carpets and apple orchards. The peaks and valleys, snow-covered slopes, glacial rivers, and the majestic Shahdag Mountain (4243 m) are some of its natural attractions. Quba is renowned for its waterfalls, springs, and mountain streams lined with seabuckthorn, mulberry, and barberry forests, as well as orchards of apples, cherries, and peaches.
Quba is home to many unique herbal plants such as hawthorn, juniper, balm, eggplant, catnip, and banana. It features a relatively cool summer climate.
Culture of Quba
According to archaeological materials and written sources, carpet weaving in Azerbaijan has been practiced since the Bronze Age (late 2nd millennium - early 1st millennium BC). Quba is considered a center for carpet weaving, famous for its rugs such as "Shirvan," "Sart Shirvan," "Jemil," "Dzeimi," and "Irvi," which can be found in museums and private collections across the country.
Tourist Attractions and Areas in Quba
Nizami Ganjavi Park
The largest and oldest park in the city of Quba, a wonderful area filled with trees, statues, and monuments. It has a building for a chess school built in 2011. Whether you want to learn chess or just enjoy the park, it is a special place to relax. The main staircase in the park is a great spot featuring unique statues. You will also find another famous landmark: the arch bridge, which is the longest in Azerbaijan at 275 meters. In the past, there were seven bridges around Quba, but floods destroyed all except this one, which remained intact thanks to its brick construction. Only pedestrians are allowed on this bridge.
Krasnaya Sloboda Jewish Village
This village is home to the Mountain Jews who have maintained ancient Jewish traditions for centuries. They migrated here from northern Iran during the Sasanian Empire and have their own language, which they call "Juhuri." The village consists of nine neighborhoods, each with its own synagogue. The houses here are similar to luxurious villas or even palaces, thanks to the number of wealthy local residents. The village has produced well-known individuals in science, arts, and business. Although they can live anywhere in the world, many return to build luxurious homes here. When touring Azerbaijan in Quba, you should not miss the central synagogue and the world's first museum for Mountain Jews.
Chukhur Hamam
This bathhouse dates back hundreds of years and is made of two large domes of heat-resistant red brick, which helps keep the place warm and humid; hence, the locals call it "the red bath." Currently, it is not an operational bathhouse but serves as a historical monument.
Abbasgulu Bakikhanov Museum House
Abbasgulu was a poet, writer, diplomat, translator, and teacher who had a significant influence on Azerbaijani literature. The museum is located in a 19th-century building where Bakikhanov lived and contains over 10,000 items such as photographs, books, and personal belongings.
Jigilchay Fortress
If you are ready for an adventure, visit this fortress. It is a massive defensive wall extending 50 kilometers. The main part is the Shiraj Gala Tower, located high on a slope, which was used to monitor enemies and send fire signals. The tower was built with alternating layers of brick and stone, similar to the Virgin Tower in Baku. Reaching the summit is not easy, but if you manage to, the view will be breathtaking, and you can also see the road leading to Derbent.
Khinalug Mountain Village
If your goal is to find a true hidden gem, head to this mountain village. It has been largely isolated from the rest of the world until a few years ago, as there were no paved roads. People have lived here for thousands of years, developing their own culture, traditions, and unique language. The village is located at an altitude of over 2000 meters above sea level, so winters can be extremely cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -30 degrees Celsius. To stay warm, locals make bricks from manure and straw. The village consists of only 360 houses and is uniquely built: the roof of one house serves as the yard for the house below it. The residents are friendly and happy to accompany you and tell you about life in these challenging conditions.
Afurdja Waterfall
For a holiday in nature, visit this waterfall. It is the tallest waterfall in Azerbaijan, reaching a height of 50 meters. Standing next to it is an unforgettable experience while touring Quba. There are cafes nearby where you can grab a quick meal and some tea and sweets.
Famous Qishresh Forest
Qishresh is one of the largest villages in Quba. It is located 12 kilometers from the district center and is surrounded by forests on all sides. It is famous for its springs and natural vegetation. As for wildlife, the village is home to deer, wolves, bears, foxes, and other animals. Fishing is also possible in the Gudialchay River, adding a special charm to the village.
Tengilti
If you are looking for a green atmosphere, thrilling mountains, and fresh air, Tengilti is the perfect place. It also offers a stunning view of the mountains and rivers.
Health Retreats in Quba Tourism
Tourism in Quba is not just about sightseeing; it is also a wonderful place for health retreats. One of the best locations is the Shahdag Quba & Truskavets Medical Sanatorium. It offers comfortable rooms, top-notch medical examinations, a variety of treatments, and enjoyable spaces for relaxation and recreation. Guests praise the high level of service, the variety of food options, and the overall atmosphere that truly allows you to unwind. They also have a pool and a small water park for both children and adults.
Cuisine of Quba
Do you want to dive into a world of unique flavors? Don’t miss the chance to experience authentic Jewish cuisine, which follows kosher rules, meaning you won’t find meat and dairy products on the same table, and pork is prohibited.
Here are some dishes you can find on the menu:
- Shumokotfai Bebi: Beef or lamb cutlets with slices of potatoes in a delicious broth.
- Yarbaghi: Stuffed cabbage, sometimes made with spinach instead of cabbage, topped with a rich sauce and usually served with a side of boiled rice.
- Jilyo: A delicious mix of spinach, cooked beef, onions, and egg whites.
- Khoiyagush: A dish of chicken and eggs that can also be made with fish or vegetables such as eggplant and potatoes, seasoned with chestnut, ginger, and turmeric.
- Gitop: Dumplings filled with various ingredients like wild coriander, green onions, spinach, radish sprouts, dill, sorrel, and lettuce, fried and served hot, often brushed with butter.
Conclusion on Tourism in Quba, Azerbaijan
Quba is one of the most magnificent tourist destinations in Azerbaijan, offering enchanting experiences and memorable moments for visitors. The city combines the beauty of breathtaking nature with its rich history, making it an ideal destination for exploration and enjoyment of cultural and natural diversity.