Baku: Paris on Caspian



Confounding expecations

It turns out that architecturally speaking, the centre of Baku is more influenced by Paris than anywhere else.

The Old City has been spruced up and renovated and looks very smart. The surprise came on stepping out into the city centre.

In 1900 Azerbaijan was producing 90% of the World's crude oil. It is clear they have been spending oil wealth to project a refined impression

Broad boulevards and grand 19th Century buildings such as these give Baku a very elegant feel. The number of high end boutique stores such as Bulgari gave Baku a very decadent edge.

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