Nakhchivan, with its rich history spanning nearly five thousand years, is not only marked by ancient legends and ruins but also by its remarkable petroglyphs. Anyone eager to connect with this living history can embark on a journey to Mount Gyamigaya. On its southern and eastern slopes, archaeologists have uncovered over 1,500 rock carvings. The oldest of these petroglyphs date back to the 4th to 1st millennia BCE, a period when livestock farming began to flourish in Azerbaijan.
The rock faces reveal depictions of both real animals—such as goats, bulls, dogs, deer, snakes, birds, panthers, and leopards—and fantastical creatures, along with images of humans, carts, and various symbols. Some drawings are schematic, while others are highly realistic and detailed. A particularly rich concentration of petroglyphs can be found near springs in the mountainous Garangush plateau, showcasing various scenes from the lives of the early settlers who inhabited these lands thousands of years ago—pastoralists with their herds, hunters armed with bows and arrows, and farmers, among others. Thanks to this rock art, scholars have gained valuable insights into the lives of ancient Nakhchivan residents. For instance, the prevalence of goat images suggests that this species was the most commonly raised livestock in the region. Additionally, the petroglyphs provide clues about the animals that once roamed the highland areas, with some drawings depicting the silhouettes of leopards.
While some images stand alone, others are part of pairs or groups. In addition to everyday scenes, the carvings capture various rituals, most frequently dance ceremonies. The most observant travelers may also notice mysterious symbols etched into the rocks: circles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and various whimsical shapes, the meanings of which remain unsolved to this day.
Some drawings are meticulously carved, while others appear hastily scratched. Scholars date these works to the late 4th to early 1st millennium BCE. This open-air gallery from the Bronze Age, situated over 3,000 meters above sea level, captivates and inspires. One could wander among the stones for days, continually uncovering new aspects of life from millennia ago. For instance, there is a stone depicting a hunting scene featuring a hunter armed with a spear in pursuit of a mountain goat. Nearby, boulders display images of archers, snakes, rivers, and anthropomorphic figures with arms raised as if engaged in an ancient dance of yalla. Many drawings resemble settlement plans, complete with roads and various structures. Symbols resembling suns and zodiac signs are also present, with one stone standing out for its seven interlocking concentric circles, nearly perfectly formed. It is possible that the ancient artist used a rudimentary compass to achieve such precision.
The road to Gyamigaya (3,906 m) begins at the village of Sabirken, located in the Ordubad district of Nakhchivan. Winding through sun-baked hills, the route ascends alongside the Gilanchay River. The surrounding landscape is arid and may initially seem dull. Here, the climate is sharply continental: with very low humidity, summer temperatures can soar above 40°C, while winter sees the thermometer plummet to 20 degrees below zero. Therefore, to witness the Nakhchivan expanses in their blooming and green glory, a visit in late spring is recommended.
As you ascend the mountain serpentine, the panorama becomes increasingly captivating. Gazing at the local mountains, one can understand the inspiration that medieval architect Ajemi Nakhchivani drew upon while creating his masterpieces. The rocky pillars rise like ancient mausoleums above the hills and valleys, while the Gilanchay carves a green canyon through the mountainous terrain. The river valley is a true oasis, where locals cultivate gardens and plant orchards. The fruits grown here are considered among the tastiest in Azerbaijan, with the lemons from Ordubad particularly prized.
After an hour and a half, the road leads to one of the mountain villages—Tivi. The houses are built in the traditional style using local stone and adobe made from a mixture of straw and clay. Nasirvaz is the last settlement before the ascent to Gyamigaya begins. From the outskirts of the village, the rocky ridge of the legendary mountain comes into view.
About half an hour of jostling in an off-road vehicle along the steep serpentine brings you to a road immersed in the diverse flora of alpine meadows. The slopes of Gyamigaya resemble a giant flowerbed, interspersed with mountain streams of refreshingly cold water.
Speaking of water, one cannot overlook Lake Goygol (not to be confused with the lake of the same name located within Goygol National Park). This lake is situated at an altitude of 3,700 m, a few kilometers northwest of the village of Nasirvaz. Its crystal-clear waters are framed by rocky outcrops on the eastern side, while the western shores overlook the picturesque valley of the Sakarsu River, which originates here. Locals claim that in July, visitors can witness all four seasons at the lake’s edge: part of the shoreline remains covered in ice and snow, while further along, the grass is just beginning to yellow, and on the opposite side, vibrant summer flowers bloom alongside lush spring vegetation. This enchanting phenomenon has led to the lake being affectionately dubbed the “Lake of Four Seasons.”
The journey to Lake Goygol is as breathtaking as the destination itself. As you traverse the rugged terrain, the air becomes crisper, and the views more spectacular. The harmony of the landscape, with its dramatic peaks and serene waters, invites travelers to pause and reflect on the beauty of nature and the passage of time. Nature enthusiasts and photographers alike will find endless inspiration here, capturing the ever-changing moods of the lake and its surroundings.