Baku International Arts Festival 2026

The Azerbaijan State Academic Musical Theatre is one of Baku’s prominent cultural venues, with a history dating back to 1910 and a longstanding tradition in the development of musical theatre in Azerbaijan.

Following an extensive reconstruction completed in 2013, the theatre combines its historic character with modern performance facilities. Its main auditorium seats 460 guests and is equipped with contemporary sound and acoustic systems, modern stage technology and a fully reconstructed rotating stage.

Today, the theatre presents a diverse programme of musicals, operettas, comedies and other stage productions, and regularly serves as a venue for cultural events and international projects.

The Nizami Cinema Center is one of the most well-known cinema complexes in Baku. The cinema center is named after the prominent Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi. The building was constructed in 1934 based on the design of architects Sadiq Dadashov and Mikayil Huseynov. Both local and foreign films are screened at the Nizami Cinema Center. In addition, various film festivals, presentations, cultural events, and special cinema-related projects are organized here. Located in the center of the city, this cinema complex is a comfortable and attractive leisure destination for both local residents and tourists. With its modern interior and extensive film program, the Nizami Cinema Center is considered an important part of Baku’s cinematic culture. A statue of Nizami Ganjavi is installed on the facade of the cinema center.

The Heydar Aliyev Center is one of the most magnificent and modern architectural landmarks of Baku. The center is dedicated to the memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, and holds an important place in the cultural life of the country. The building of the center was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Its wave-like and flowing form is considered one of the most remarkable examples of modern architecture. The building’s unusual design is distinguished by the absence of sharp angles and the harmony of smooth lines. These features give the structure both aesthetic beauty and a distinctive architectural style.

Inside the center there are exhibition halls, conference rooms, a museum section, and spacious areas intended for various cultural events. Visitors have the opportunity to become acquainted with Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage while also experiencing examples of contemporary art.

The oldest theatre in the country and one of Baku’s leading cultural stages. Its history dates back to 1873, when the first plays in the Azerbaijani language were performed here. The current building, constructed in 1919 in Neoclassical style, has become an important architectural landmark of the capital.

Today, the theatre continues national traditions while embracing both classical and contemporary works. Its stage hosts Azerbaijani playwrights as well as world classics. Azdarma is a cultural arena where new ideas are born and Azerbaijan’s theatrical school is shaped.

The oldest theatre in the country and one of Baku’s leading cultural stages.Its history dates back to 1873, when the first plays in the Azerbaijani language were performed here. The current building, constructed in 1919 in Neoclassical style, has become an important architectural landmark of the capital.

Today, the theatre continues national traditions while embracing both classical and contemporary works. Its stage hosts Azerbaijani playwrights as well as world classics. Azdarma is a cultural arena where new ideas are born and Azerbaijan’s theatrical school is shaped.

The Stone Chronicle Museum on the territory of the State Flag Square has been created by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. On 8 June 2015, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva, and Vice-president of the Foundation Leyla Aliyeva acquainted themselves with the museum.

The museum is located in the building of a power station built in 1921 and once provided for energy supply of oil fields. Many types of stone plastic artsis displayed in the exposition of the Museum. The exposition includes, along with exhibits brought from Gobustan and Qala reserves, works by sculptor Hussein Hagverdy. At this exhibition, the sculptor presents a history he called “The Artery”.