The Ateshgah Fire Temple, located on the Absheron Peninsula just outside Baku, is one of Azerbaijan’s most iconic and spiritually symbolic sites. Known as the “Temple of Eternal Fire,” Ateshgah has long captivated visitors with its mystical flame and unique architecture. The current structure dates back to the 17th–18th centuries, but the site itself has been a place of fire worship since at least the 2nd century AD, when Zoroastrian pilgrims revered the natural gas-fed flames that once burned continuously here.

Built by Indian traders and pilgrims, Ateshgah reflects a fusion of Persian, Indian, and Azerbaijani religious traditions. The temple’s distinctive pentagonal courtyard and central altar, where fire once blazed from subterranean gas vents, offer a glimpse into ancient rites that honored fire as a divine element. Though the natural flames were extinguished in the 20th century due to gas depletion, a symbolic fire now burns once again—restoring a sense of sacred ambiance for visitors.

Today, Ateshgah stands as a museum and UNESCO tentative site, preserving the story of fire worship and cultural exchange in the Caucasus. Its deeply spiritual atmosphere and striking setting make it a must-visit for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

If you clicked on the image of the Ateshgah Fire Temple, you’re already fascinated by its ancient flame—so scroll down to see the curated trips that include this timeless destination and pick the one that ignites your interest.