For the older generation of Baku residents, this square has always been known as Parapet. Despite the official name change to “Karl Marx Square” in 1920, initiated by Nariman Narimanov, the legacy of its original name endures in the hearts of many.
The story of this square began in 1868 when, under the project of Kasym-bek Gadji Bababekov and in accordance with Baku’s 1864 urban plan, a space was designated “for drills and parades.” Before the revolution, this square was envisioned as a connector between the Old City and the suburbs, specifically allocated for military parades and inspections, hence it was enclosed for those purposes. Another name from that era was the “Dry Garden” (or “Fruitless Garden”), as the ground trampled by these parades was barren, with not a blade of grass to be found.
By the early 20th century, Baku faced a severe drinking water crisis; the water in wells was dirty and salty, leading to a scarcity of parks and greenery in the city, as there was no means to irrigate them. It wasn’t until 1899, thanks to the efforts of the prominent philanthropist Taghiyev, that clean water became available in Baku. A German engineer, hired by Taghiyev, discovered potable water 180 kilometers away from the city. Taghiyev financed the construction of a pipeline, which became the longest aqueduct in the Russian Empire, supplying the city with three million buckets of water daily. This influx of water allowed for the planting of trees, transforming the former Dry Garden into a cozy, shaded square.
The imperial authorities had various plans for the development of the square. Initially, there were intentions to build an Orthodox church, but there wasn’t enough space for it. Later, plans were made to erect a monument to Alexander II, but funding fell short. Just before the monument could be established, the area underwent a redesign, earning the name “Imperial Square.”
Over the years, several attempts were made to green the square’s perimeter with varying degrees of success. However, it was only after the completion of the Shollar Water Supply in 1916 that the square began to evolve into a park.
In the 1950s, under the guidance of architect I. Tikhomirov, a significant reconstruction took place. The square was transformed into a modern (for its time) green space, merging with the nearby Nizami Square.
A new phase of renovation commenced in 1984, featuring new paving, the construction of fountains, and the planting of new trees. It was during this time that the square began to be referred to as the “Fountain Square.”
The modern history of the square began in 2010, when a comprehensive renovation removed street kiosks, laid new paving, and installed bronze genre sculptures such as “Girl on a Bench” and “Girl with an Umbrella,” along with red curved lanterns. Additionally, the facades of all buildings facing the square were restored.
Today, the square is surrounded by a plethora of cafés, restaurants, and shops. It features a park area with benches, children’s attractions, urban sculptures, and a large market offering various delicacies. In the evenings, the square comes alive with visitors, making it a vibrant hub of activity in the heart of Baku.
