Nestled just a few dozen kilometers from Baku on the Absheron Peninsula lies the extraordinary Qala Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, a complex that encapsulates a rich tapestry of five thousand years of history. This unique archaeological and ethnographic reserve was established in 1988 and underwent significant restoration and expansion in 2008 with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, transforming it into a comprehensive cultural complex.
The site for the museum was carefully selected, as it is home to a 14th-century fortress that served as the historical heart of the village of Qala. Although the fortress tower suffered considerable damage during the Soviet era, it was fully restored in 2010. Beneath the fortress, there are chambers and secret passages that, according to local legend, connected to other towers across the Absheron Peninsula.
The museum showcases a diverse array of artifacts, including rock carvings, burial mounds, clay pottery, and tent-like structures, spanning from the Middle Bronze Age to the medieval period.
What sets the Qala Museum apart is its interactive experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of ancient times. Guests can participate in various traditional activities, such as visiting a pottery workshop to observe the ancient techniques of pottery-making, engaging with a blacksmith at work, and even taking part in wedding preparations. Visitors can try their hand at baking lavash on a saj, or watch skilled spinners and weavers create beautiful carpets.
The complex also features a livestock area where camels, horses, and other domestic animals, historically raised by the residents of Qala, are kept. A significant contribution to the museum’s collection has come from local families, who have generously donated cherished heirlooms, including ancient pottery and household items.
Archaeological excavations and the remnants of defensive structures indicate that Qala was one of the earliest centers for crafts and trade in the region. Numerous coins from various eras and states have been unearthed here, further underscoring its historical significance.
