In
the lowest reaches of Azokh Cave in western Azerbaijan, archaeologists
have found tools and remains dating back 1.5 million years.
.. the caverns were occupied for nearly two million years.
Kutabi – filled pancakes – are practically Azerbaijan’s national
dish.
No
social occasion is complete without tea, served with myriad
trimmings. It’s often sweetened with jam – and flavoured with
thyme, lemon, mint or rosewater.
The karabakh horse – renowned for its effortless speed, intelligence
and endurance – is the national animal of Azerbaijan. They
are endemic to the country, and one of the oldest breeds in
the world.
Azerbaijan
has more mud volcanoes than any other country on earth – more
than 400. When its volcanoes erupt, the flames shoot up to
a kilometre in the air, and when dormant they bubble and pop
with noxious gases.
It’s thought that washing newborns in salt water will make
them strong, truthful and bold. Children’s fingernails and
hair are only cut after their first birthday.
Most people have at least one gold tooth
A gold, shimmering smile is a common sight, especially among
Azerbaijan’s older generations. For some, it’s a snazzy way
to replace rotten teeth. For others, it’s akin to a savings
account.
Baku is also home to Little Venice, a man-made waterway that
flows between shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
It has a number of islands, connected by bridges and walkways
– but the best way to get around is by gondola.
When
bread goes stale, Azerbaijani cooks don’t just chuck it in
the bin: they hang it up in bags, separate from the rest of
the rubbish, to signify their respect. If you drop bread on
the floor, it’s custom to kiss it, as an apology.
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