AZERBAIJAN- is a country of a rich and ancient history. The first formations of Azerbaijan statehood are concerned by historians as far back as the first millennium BC. The name "Azerbaijan" is believed to be connected with Atropatena and Albania, the states existed on the territory of Azerbaijan in the antique period. The 3-4th centuries were marked by the dissemination of Christianity in Azerbaijan and development of intellectual and secular culture. In the 7 century Azerbaijan was conquered by Arabian Caliphate. The predominant religion of the state becomes Islam. New tradition and culture, arisen in that period, were included into the intellectual and tangible life of all next generations. Occupied comparatively small territory, Azerbaijan has unique natural and climatic features. Due to relief diversity and sea factor, nine of eleven climatic zones are represented here: from subtropics of tourism and its concomitant fields.

Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan Republic. Baku is a political, administrative and cultural center of Azerbaijan. The name of Baku means "city of winds". The coat of arms of Baku is formed of three torches against the sea waves. Long since Azerbaijan is called "Land of Fire" and Baku with its burning springs is a sort of Azerbaijan symbol. Baku is the oil city. History of oil Baku has the started from the end of the 19th century. Modern Baku is a city with good amenities and developed infrastructure. New buildings have visibly renewed the city appearance. Despite all these changes Baku harmoniously combines its past and present. Europe and Asia, western and oriental culture merged here. A variety of the historical monuments clearly confirm this fact.

The Icheri Shekher Fortress, which is located in the oldest part of the capital Baku dates from the middle Ages. Reflecting those unsettled times; it is surrounded by an impressive defensive wall. Whithin the complex are 40 structures such as towers Palaces and mosques. Shirvanshakh Palace is considered one of the masterpieces of Azeri architecture and known as "The Pearl of Old Baku". It is the onetime residence of the Shirvanshakhs.

The Ateshgah fire-worshippers' temple was restored in the 18th century by congregation from India. The original building was built on a spot where natural gas was coming out from the ground, causing "ever-burning flames" which used to inspire Zoroaster and his followers. The temple was destroyed in the 7th century. An explanation on the cult and the history of the place will be given.

This excursion take you to the hinterland of Baku including visits to a number of fortresses that used to form part of an integral defense system of Absheron during the Middle Ages.

On this excursion you will be informed about the history of oil development in Azerbaijan. Even in ancient times oil was known to exist on the Absheron peninsula, and there were various religious cults connected with the oil and gas fields. Your guide will tell you about different methods of oil extraction both ancient and modern. You will be introduced to non traditional uses of oil and to the present situation within the oil industry in Azerbaijan, the oil development prospects, that the contract of the Century signed by some of the worlds largest oil companies brings to Azerbaijan. You will visit the oldest oil producing fields of the Absheron peninsula, observe the natural gas outlets (Yanar DAG - "Burning Mountain") and mud volcanoes together with the current on and offshore oil fields.