{"id":2116,"date":"2025-06-24T11:19:39","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T11:19:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/toursbaku.com\/?p=2116"},"modified":"2026-08-28T17:22:20","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T17:22:20","slug":"fountains-square","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/toursbaku.com\/az\/fountains-square\/","title":{"rendered":"Fountains Square"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Fountains Square<\/strong>, locally known as “F\u0259vvar\u0259l\u0259r Meydan\u0131”<\/strong> and fondly remembered by older generations as “Parapet”<\/strong>, is the cultural, social, and commercial heartbeat of Baku, Azerbaijan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0This iconic city square, adorned with dozens of artistic fountains, is much more than a beautiful gathering place\u2014it’s a dynamic symbol of Baku’s evolution, offering a captivating blend of historical depth, European sophistication, and modern urban charm.<\/p>\n

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Build this stop into your itinerary with a private Baku city tour<\/a>, places to visit in Baku<\/a>, and day trips from Baku<\/a>.<\/p>\n

A Historical Gem: From “Parapet” to Fountains Square<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The history of Fountain Square stretches back to 1868<\/strong>, when Baku\u2019s urban plan reserved the area for military drills and parades<\/strong>, earning it the early nickname “Parapet.”<\/strong> In the pre-Soviet era, this open expanse was a strategic connector between Icherisheher (Old City)<\/strong> and the city’s expanding suburbs.<\/p>\n

Initially barren due to Baku’s 19th-century water shortage, it was often called the “Dry Garden”<\/strong> or “Fruitless Garden.” T<\/strong>his changed dramatically in 1899<\/strong>, when visionary oil baron Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev<\/strong> financed the groundbreaking Shollar Water Pipeline<\/strong>. Stretching over 180 kilometers, it brought clean water to Baku and enabled the city’s transformation into a green, livable metropolis.<\/p>\n

Despite several unrealized plans by Imperial authorities to build an Orthodox church or monument to Alexander II, the area officially evolved into a park after the 1916 completion<\/strong> of the Shollar system.<\/p>\n

Soviet-Era Development and Modern Revitalization<\/strong><\/h2>\n

So, in the 1950s<\/strong>, renowned architect I. Tikhomirov<\/strong> redesigned the square, merging it with Nizami Square<\/strong> and adding lush landscaping. A major upgrade in 1984<\/strong> introduced decorative fountains<\/strong> that eventually gave the plaza its modern name.<\/p>\n

The most significant transformation came in 2010<\/strong>, when a comprehensive renovation added elegant paving, restored historic facades, removed kiosks, and introduced the now-famous bronze sculptures<\/strong> such as “Girl on a Bench”<\/strong> and “Girl with an Umbrella.”<\/strong> Red curved lanterns were added, casting a warm, distinctive glow in the evenings.<\/p>\n

The Fountains of Baku: A Visual and Auditory Delight<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The defining feature of Fountains Square<\/strong> is, naturally, its many fountains<\/strong>. Meanwhile, these aren\u2019t just water features; they are art installations, <\/strong>ranging from large, tiered displays to whimsical, interactive water jets.<\/p>\n

At night, colorful lights<\/strong> illuminate the fountains, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates photographers, tourists, and locals alike. One particularly striking fountain features silver spheres<\/strong> that mirror the surroundings, offering a surreal, fish-eye view of the square’s lush greenery and historic buildings.<\/p>\n

The soft murmur of water contrasts gently with the buzz of activity, providing a serene ambiance amid Baku\u2019s vibrant city life.<\/p>\n

Things to Do in Fountains Square, Baku<\/strong><\/h2>\n

1. Shopping and Dining<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Surrounded by boutiques, designer stores, and local artisan shops<\/strong>, Fountains Square is a shopper’s paradise. It connects seamlessly to Nizami Street<\/strong> (locally called “Torgovaya”<\/strong>), Baku’s premier pedestrian shopping avenue, offering everything from high-end fashion<\/strong> to traditional Azerbaijani souvenirs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Food lovers will find endless culinary options. Also, sidewalk cafes and fine-dining restaurants serve Azerbaijani cuisine<\/strong>, Turkish and Middle Eastern dishes, and global fare. Don\u2019t miss out on trying local street food<\/strong> like kebabs or traditional Azerbaijani tea<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2. Arts, Culture, and Museums<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Steps away from the square is the stunning National Museum of Azerbaijani Literature<\/strong>, named after the 12th-century poet Nizami Ganjavi<\/strong>. Its ornate fa\u00e7ade is especially impressive at night.<\/p>\n

In addition, the square frequently hosts live concerts, festivals, public celebrations<\/strong>, and street performances, making it a year-round destination for cultural events in Baku<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

3. Relaxation and People-Watching<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Benches, gardens, and shaded areas make Fountains Square an ideal spot for relaxation<\/strong>. Whether sipping coffee or simply watching the world go by, visitors can enjoy the lively yet peaceful atmosphere of central Baku<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

4. Sculptures and Architecture<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Beyond fountains, visitors can explore the urban sculptures<\/strong> that add artistic character to the square. Architectural styles range from Soviet-era grandeur<\/strong> to restored 19th-century facades<\/strong>, reflecting Baku\u2019s unique architectural heritage.<\/p>\n

Central Location and Accessibility<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Fountains Square sits at the heart of Baku<\/strong>, intersecting major roads such as Istiglaliyyat Street<\/strong> and connecting with Nizami Street<\/strong>, making it easily reachable from any part of the city. It serves as a starting point for exploring nearby attractions:<\/p>\n