If you’re heading to Azerbaijan, make sure to leave extra room in your suitcase. The local markets and artisanal shops are full of unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. From handwoven carpets to intricate pottery, Azerbaijan is perfect for those who love bringing home something special.
1. Handwoven Carpets
Azerbaijan is famous for its carpets. These aren’t just any ordinary rugs, though. Azerbaijani carpets are handwoven works of art, known for their distinctive patterns and vibrant colors. Each region in Azerbaijan has its own style, so you’ll find variations in designs and techniques as you explore different markets.
Where to Buy Carpets in Azerbaijan
The best place to shop for carpets is the Old City (Icherisheher) in Baku. Wander through the ancient streets, and you’ll see plenty of shops offering a variety of traditionally made carpets. One shop that stands out is the Azer-Ilme Carpet Factory shop. It’s an excellent stop if you want high-quality, authentic designs.
If you find yourself outside the capital, head to the town of Sheki. It’s well-known for its majestic Palaces and its incredible carpets. A local recommendation would be the Sheki Art Gallery, where you can find stunning handmade rugs at reasonable prices.
2. Ceramics and Pottery
Ceramics have always been a part of Azerbaijani culture. From cups to decorative plates, each piece is hand-painted with bold colors and intricate designs. These items not only make for perfect gifts but also can be used as art in your home.
Where to Buy Ceramics
The mountain village of Lahij is your go-to for pottery. Here, you’ll find skilled artisans who have been making ceramics for generations. Every shop offers unique pieces. Don’t hesitate to chat with the artists themselves to learn more about their craft.
If you’re in Baku, you should stop by the Nizami Street shopping area. There are several shops offering traditional Azerbaijani ceramics. You might also enjoy visiting the Baku Handicraft Center, which showcases local pottery and various folk arts.
3. Shebeke (Stained Glass)
If you’ve seen the Palace of Sheki Khans, you’ve likely already noticed one of Azerbaijan’s most beautiful crafts: Shebeke. This stained glass art forms stunning windows limited to no metal parts. It’s all done by fitting glass into wooden frames—a detailed process that creates colorful light reflections in any room.
Where to Buy Shebeke
Sheki is where you’ll find most of Azerbaijan’s Shebeke artisans. The Sheki Craft Shop is a great place to start. There, you can watch the craftsmen in action and purchase smaller Shebeke souvenirs.
If you’re visiting the capital, some Baku shops also sell smaller pieces of Shebeke that are perfect for taking home.
4. Pomegranate Products
Azerbaijan loves pomegranates. You can find everything from pomegranate jams and juices to pomegranate wine. This fruit has cultural and symbolic meaning as a symbol of fertility and prosperity. It’s also delicious!
Where to Buy Pomegranate Souvenirs
The best pomegranate-based products are available in Goychay. This region is known as the heart of pomegranate growing in Azerbaijan. If your schedule doesn’t allow a visit, farmers’ markets in Baku offer great alternatives. Check out Teze Bazar or Yashil Bazar to pick up some tasty pomegranate jams or syrups.
5. Silk Scarves and Textiles
Sheki is well-known for its silk weaving tradition. Delicate silk scarves and shawls make for practical and stylish souvenirs. You can find them in bold patterns or soft pastels, which are almost as captivating as they are light.
Where to Buy Silk Scarves
In Sheki, visit the Sheki Silk Factory to see silk weaving happening on traditional looms. The workshop allows visitors to see how everything is made and stock up on gorgeous silk pieces. You can also find high-quality scarves at the Baku Bazaar markets back in the capital.
6. Copper and Metalworks
Copper craftsmanship is another long-standing tradition in Azerbaijan, particularly in the city of Lahij. Craftsmen here produce beautiful hand-hammered copper items, like tea sets, trays, and home décor.
Where to Buy Copper and Metalworks
Lahij is the best place to go if you’re after traditional copper products. The village has a workshop atmosphere, and you can see the metalworkers shaping every detail by hand. If you can’t make it to Lahij, you can still pick up smaller copper items in larger Baku markets like the Nizami Street shops or in specialty stores within the Old City.
7. Narsharab Sauce
Narsharab is a unique Azerbaijani sauce made from reduced pomegranate juice. It’s a perfect mix of sweet and tart. Use it as a marinade for meat or as an extra flavor for salads.
Where to Buy Narsharab
You’ll find bottled versions of Narsharab in just about any grocery store across Azerbaijan. For a more local experience, check out Baku’s Teze Bazar market, where you’ll find smaller batch artisanal versions of the sauce.
8. Saffron
Azerbaijani saffron is something special. The climate and soil help produce some of the finest saffron in the world. A pinch goes a long way in flavoring dishes, so it’s a great investment for anyone who loves cooking.
Where to Buy Saffron
The best place to pick up saffron is the large, bustling markets in Baku. Yashil Bazar is especially known for its spices, including saffron. You’ll also find saffron at many shops around Icherisheher.
9. Tea
Tea is an important part of Azerbaijani culture, and there’s nothing like sipping on some at home to bring back memories of your trip. Tea is typically served in pear-shaped glasses, often with sugar cubes and jam.
Where to Buy Azerbaijani Tea
Head to Baku’s markets like Teze Bazar or Yashil Bazar. You’ll find different varieties of tea here. Some shops may even let you have a taste before you buy. Locals recommend checking out teas from Lankaran, which is known for producing some of the best tea in the country.
10. Traditional Azerbaijani Jewelry
If you’re looking for something a bit more personal, traditional Azerbaijani jewelry makes a wonderful gift. Artisans here design pieces that reflect the country’s rich history. Look for silver pieces or those embedded with local gemstones. These pieces are often delicate and beautifully crafted.
Where to Buy Jewelry
Again, the Old City of Baku is full of little shops showcasing traditional Azerbaijani jewelry. It’s worth taking the time to browse. You’ll find everything from handcrafted earrings to more elaborate necklaces. Check out shops like Marjin Art & Craft, where you can find unique handmade pieces from local designers.
Final Thoughts
Shopping in Azerbaijan is an adventure on its own. Whether it’s a handwoven carpet, a bottle of pomegranate syrup, or beautiful copperware from Lahij, you’ll find something truly special here. Just make sure your luggage can handle the extra weight!
Remember to haggle politely in the markets—it’s part of the experience. And most importantly, take the time to chat with the artisans. You’ll be taking home much more than just a souvenir—you’ll also be carrying a piece of Azerbaijani history and culture.
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