A journey through Nij’s history and heritage VIDEO
Baku, October 8, AZERTAC
The latest feature in AZERTAC’s “If I Were a Tourist” column highlights Nij Settlement in Gabala.
Nij, a distinctive destination on Gabala’s tourism map, stands out for its ancient history, rich cultural heritage, and multicultural character. It is an ideal place to explore Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage, preserved and passed down through generations.
As the road from the Gabala–Oghuz highway turns toward Nij, the landscape gradually transforms. The noise of the city is left behind as the road passes through greenery and leads to the ancient settlement. Located approximately 24 kilometers from Gabala, Nij welcomes visitors with its peaceful atmosphere, lush surroundings, and unique character. The settlement is home to more than 6,000 residents, about 3,700 of whom are Udis. Nij is one of the ancient settlements of the Udi people. Azerbaijanis, Udis, Lezgins, and members of other ethnic groups have lived side by side here for centuries. This rich diversity forms an integral part of Nij’s cultural identity.
Start your journey at the Chotari Albanian-Udi Church, then visit the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary to explore Nij’s religious and historical heritage. Three churches and two mosques in the settlement reflect the longstanding coexistence of different religious traditions.
The Azerbaijan Udi Hearth Historical Ethnographic Park and Museum is one of Nij’s popular tourist attractions. The open-air museum features traditional household items, national costumes, farming tools, and other ethnographic artifacts showcasing the lifestyle of the Udi people.
A highlight of the museum is a traditional Udi house believed to date back to the late 17th century, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle and living traditions of the Udi people.
If you visit Gabala, add Nij to your itinerary. It is a unique destination where Azerbaijan’s history, cultural diversity, and living heritage come together.
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