Azerbaijan
Coastal BeachesAzerbaijan, officially known as the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west, and Iran to the south. The exclave of Nakhchivan is bordered by Armenia to the north and east, Iran to the south and west, while having a short border with Turkey to the northwest. Azerbaijan's capital and largest city is Baku, which is famed for its medieval walled Inner City. The country has a rich cultural heritage and is known as the land of fire due to its natural burning flames, which is also reflected in its modern architecture. Azerbaijan's economy is largely based on oil and gas production, but it also has a growing agricultural and industrial sector. The country has a diverse landscape that includes the Caspian Sea's coastline, the Greater Caucasus mountain range, and arid plains. It has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Azerbaijan has a unique blend of history and modernity, with ancient historical sites alongside contemporary buildings. The country is known for its hospitable people and vibrant culture, which includes traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Azerbaijan has been historically significant for its strategic location along the Silk Road and has a complex history of Persian, Turkish, and Soviet influences. Today, it is a secular nation with a majority Turkic and Shi'a Muslim population, but it also has a history of religious tolerance and diversity. The country celebrates its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since been working towards integrating with the Western world and improving its economy and governance.