Ateshgah of Baku

The Ateshgah of Baku, known as the Fire Temple of Baku, is a unique religious complex located in Surakhany, a suburb of Baku, Azerbaijan. This pentagonal structure, built in the 17th and 18th centuries, served as a place of worship for Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian communities. The temple features a central altar and monk cells, and it was historically a pilgrimage site for Zoroastrians from India. Although the natural eternal flame was extinguished in 1969 due to gas extraction, the site is now maintained with piped gas. Declared a state historical-architectural reserve in 2007 and converted into a museum in 1975, the Ateshgah attracts around 15,000 visitors annually. Its name means 'home of fire' in Persian, reflecting its significance in fire worship and its location atop a former natural gas field. The temple's rich history and architectural beauty make it a fascinating destination for tourists and researchers alike.