The admiration for actor Jean-Claude Van Damme is a phenomenon recognized worldwide. In his native Belgium, a monument was erected in his honor back in 2012, during his lifetime, and the action star himself participated in its unveiling. However, few may be aware that Azerbaijan is home to a village called Vandam, spelled as Vəndam in Azerbaijani, which translates to “ash tree roof.”
In a delightful tribute to the actor, the village has installed a monument depicting Jean-Claude in a serene split, a pose that mirrors his iconic stretch from the famous Volvo truck commercial in which he starred. Naturally, he was pleasantly surprised by this homage.
Vandam is situated on the left bank of the Vandamchai River, nestled at the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. One of the village’s distinguishing natural features is the abundance of chestnut forests that line the slopes of the Vandamchai River valley. These forests are primarily composed of chestnut trees but also include beech, maple, and hornbeam. As a result, the local economy is predominantly focused on horticulture, with livestock farming being relatively underdeveloped. The villagers primarily cultivate chestnuts, nuts, apples, and pears.
A popular attraction for tourists is the so-called “Bucket Market,” named for its unique practice of selling goods by the bucket. This market is conveniently located at the entrance to the village, right along the Baku-Gabala highway. The vibrant stalls are adorned with bright colors, making it a frequent stop for many travelers passing through. Consequently, the primary clientele at the market consists of both local residents and foreign tourists visiting Azerbaijan. The market remains bustling even in winter, as Gabala boasts several modern tourist centers that draw visitors year-round. Not only do private cars and taxis stop here, but also buses that provide tourist and regular transport between Baku and Gabala. Essentially, the “Bucket Market” serves as a significant source of income for the local community.
In addition to pickled vegetables, shoppers can find a variety of winter preparations, including assorted preserves, honey, jams, and compotes. Unique items like honey mixed with ground nuts—such as almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts—are also available. For many foreigners, the market offers exotic products like rose water, doshab (a concentrated juice made from mulberries, grapes, figs, or persimmons), violet jam, wild strawberry jam, and barberry juice. In short, the famous “Bucket Market” is a treasure trove of natural and healthful products.
The village of Vandam is also home to a carpet workshop and a wood carving studio. At the foot of the mountains, visitors can enjoy horseback riding at the recreation area known as “Duyma.”