The Heydar Aliyev Center is one of Baku’s most striking landmarks: a sweeping white building that folds up from its plaza in a series of fluid curves. Designed by Zaha Hadid and opened in 2012, it is a compelling example of her architectural style, with few of the sharp angles associated with conventional civic buildings.
Named after Azerbaijan’s former president, the center is both a cultural venue and a symbol of Baku’s post-Soviet transformation. Inside are displays devoted to Heydar Aliyev’s life and Azerbaijani culture, alongside changing art and design exhibitions. The flowing interior is as much a part of the experience as the collections, with ramps and open spaces carrying the building’s curves indoors.
Give yourself at least an hour or two to explore, and check the center’s official website for current opening hours and exhibition tickets before setting out. Leave time to walk around the plaza: the building looks different from every angle, and its illuminated curves are particularly photogenic after dark.