Sum Sum Sumqayit: A Guide to the Second Largest City in Azerbaijan
If you are looking for a destination that combines history, culture, nature, and modernity, you might want to consider visiting Sumqayit, the second largest city in Azerbaijan. Located on the coast of the Caspian Sea, Sumqayit is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers of all interests and budgets. In this article, we will give you an overview of what Sumqayit has to offer, from its origins and development to its current attractions and amenities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural immersion, or an adventurous exploration, Sumqayit has something for you.
Introduction
What is Sum Sum Sumqayit?
Sumqayit (also spelled Sumgait or Sumgayit) is a city in Azerbaijan, located near the Caspian Sea, on the Absheron Peninsula, about 31 kilometers (19 miles) away from the capital Baku. The city has a population of around 358,675, making it the second largest city in Azerbaijan after Baku. The city has a territory of 90 square kilometers (30 square miles) and is divided into 11 administrative districts. It was founded as a suburb of Baku in 1944 and received city status on November 22, 1949, growing into a major industrial center during the Soviet period. The municipality of Sumqayit also includes the settlements of Jorat and Haji Zeynalabdin. It is home to Sumqayit State University.
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Why visit Sum Sum Sumqayit?
Sumqayit is a city that has a lot to offer to visitors who are interested in learning more about the history, culture, and nature of Azerbaijan. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Sumqayit:
Sumqayit is a city that has witnessed significant historical events, such as the development of the Soviet industrialization, the ethnic violence of the late 1980s, and the independence movement of Azerbaijan. You can learn more about these events and their impact on the city and its people by visiting museums, monuments, and memorials.
Sumqayit is a city that has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its location on the crossroads of Europe and Asia. You can experience this culture by watching performances at theatres, listening to music at concerts, tasting local cuisine at restaurants, and shopping at markets.
Sumqayit is a city that has a beautiful and varied natural environment, surrounded by the Caspian Sea and the Absheron Peninsula. You can enjoy this environment by relaxing at beaches, exploring parks and gardens, and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
History and Culture
The origin of the name Sumqayit
According to local folklore, the city is named after the . One folk legend tells the tale. Sum eventually manages to kill the monster, but when the river is released he is swept away by the waters and never seen again. After that, his beloved, Jeyran, inconsolable due to Sum's disappearance, would go to the river and cry "Sum qayıt!" (which means "Sum, come back!" in Azerbaijani). So the river became known as Sumgait, after which the city was named.
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The development of Sumqayit as an industrial center
Sumqayit was founded as a suburb of Baku in 1944 and received city status on November 22, 1949. It grew rapidly as a major industrial center during the Soviet period, largely on the basis of petroleum from the Absheron Peninsula. Its vast modern factories produce aluminum, steel pipes for the oil industry, synthetic rubber, fertilizers, detergents, and petrochemicals. Sumqayit is also home to the Sumqayit Chemical Industrial Park, which was established by a decree of President Ilham Aliyev in 2011. The park covers 505.64 hectares and includes various sectors such as agro and medicine chemistry, household chemistry, chemistry in building and construction, electronics and automotive industry chemistry, polymers and industrial equipment production. The park offers tax and customs incentives, infrastructure, logistics, and free trade opportunities to its residents.
The Sumgait pogrom and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
The violence in Sumqayit was unexpected and was widely covered in the Western media. It was greeted with general surprise in Armenia and the rest of the Soviet Union since ethnic conflicts in the country had been largely suppressed by the Soviet government, which had promoted policies such as fraternity of peoples, socialist patriotism, and proletarian internationalism to avert such conflicts. However, with the policies of glasnost and perestroika that were put in place by Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987 which relaxed suppression of the Soviet government, it was now possible for ethnic conflicts and ethnic nationalism to rise in the Soviet Union. The massacre, together with the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, presented a major challenge to Gorbachev. He was later criticized for his slow reaction to the crisis.
The Sumgait pogrom was a pogrom that targeted the Armenian population of the seaside town of Sumgait in late February 1988. The pogrom took place during the early stages of the Karabakh movement, which demanded the unification of Nagorno-Karabakh (an autonomous region of Azerbaijan populated mostly by Armenians) with Armenia. On February 27, 1988, mobs of ethnic Azerbaijanis formed into groups and attacked and killed Armenians on the streets and in their apartments; widespread looting and a general lack of concern from police officers allowed the violence to continue for three days. On February 28, a small contingent of Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) troops entered the city and unsuccessfully attempted to quell the rioting. More professional military units entered with tanks and armored personnel vehicles one day later. Government forces imposed a state of martial law and curfew and brought the crisis to an end. The official death toll released by the Prosecutor General of the USSR (tallies were compiled based on lists of named victims) was 32 people (26 Armenians and 6 Azerbaijanis), although other estimates reach up into the hundreds of victims. The violence in Sumgait was one of the first violent events of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which escalated into a full-scale war between Armenia and Azerbaijan that lasted until 1994. Attractions and Activities
The Caspian Sea and the Absheron Peninsula
One of the main attractions of Sumqayit is its location on the coast of the Caspian Sea, the largest inland body of water in the world. The Caspian Sea is rich in biodiversity and natural resources, such as oil and gas, caviar, and sturgeon. It also has a unique salinity level, which is lower than the ocean but higher than most lakes. The Caspian Sea offers many opportunities for recreation and relaxation, such as swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, and windsurfing. The beaches of Sumqayit are sandy and clean, and some of them have been awarded the Blue Flag certification for environmental standards. Some of the popular beaches in Sumqayit are Novkhani Beach, Shikhov Beach, Sahil Beach, and Yeni Sumqayit Beach.
Sumqayit is also situated on the Absheron Peninsula, a region that is known for its natural and cultural heritage. The peninsula has a semi-arid climate and a diverse landscape, featuring mud volcanoes, salt lakes, sand dunes, and rocky hills. The peninsula is also home to many historical and religious sites, such as the Ateshgah Fire Temple, the Yanar Dag Burning Mountain, the Mardakan Castle, the Ramana Castle, and the Pir Hasan Sanctuary. The Absheron Peninsula is a great place to explore the ancient and modern history of Azerbaijan, as well as its traditions and customs.
The Sumqayit State Drama Theatre and the Sumqayit State Musical Comedy Theatre
If you are interested in experiencing the cultural life of Sumqayit, you should not miss the opportunity to visit its theatres. The Sumqayit State Drama Theatre was founded in 1969 and is one of the leading theatres in Azerbaijan. It has a repertoire of classic and contemporary plays by Azerbaijani and foreign authors, such as Mirza Fatali Akhundov, Jafar Jabbarli, Samad Vurgun, William Shakespeare, Anton Chekhov, and Bertolt Brecht. The theatre also hosts festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and workshops. The Sumqayit State Musical Comedy Theatre was founded in 1974 and is specialized in musical comedies and operettas. It performs works by Azerbaijani composers such as Uzeyir Hajibeyov, Muslim Magomayev, Tofig Guliyev, Emin Sabitoglu, as well as foreign composers such as Franz Lehár, Johann Strauss II, Jacques Offenbach, and Cole Porter. The theatre also organizes tours and guest performances in other cities and countries.
The Heydar Aliyev Park and the Flag Square
Another way to enjoy Sumqayit is to visit its parks and squares. The Heydar Aliyev Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Sumqayit. It covers an area of 40 hectares and features various attractions such as fountains, sculptures, playgrounds, sports facilities, cafes, and a Ferris wheel. The park is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923-2003), who was the third president of Azerbaijan from 1993 to 2003 and is widely regarded as the founder of modern Azerbaijan. The park also hosts various events such as concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and celebrations.
The Flag Square is another landmark of Sumqayit that you should not miss. It is located on the shore of the Caspian Sea and has a giant flagpole that measures 70 meters (230 feet) in height. The flagpole flies the national flag of Azerbaijan, which consists of three horizontal stripes of blue (representing Turkic heritage), red (representing progress), and green (representing Islam), with a white crescent and an eight-pointed star in the center. The flag square also has a monument dedicated to the victims of the Sumgait pogrom. Transportation and Accommodation
How to get to Sumqayit from Baku and other cities
Sumqayit is easily accessible from Baku and other cities in Azerbaijan by various means of transportation. The most common and convenient way to get to Sumqayit is by bus. There are regular buses that run between Baku and Sumqayit every 15 minutes, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The bus fare is 0.5 manat (about $0.3) and the journey takes about 40 minutes. You can catch the bus from the 20 Yanvar Bus Station or the Koroglu Metro Station in Baku.
Another option is to take a train from Baku to Sumqayit. There are two trains that operate daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. The train fare is 0.4 manat (about $0.2) and the journey takes about 30 minutes. You can board the train from the Baku Railway Station or the Bakikhanov Railway Station in Baku.
You can also take a taxi from Baku to Sumqayit, which is more comfortable but also more expensive. The taxi fare is around 15-20 manat (about $9-12) and the journey takes about 25 minutes. You can find taxis at the airport, the railway station, or the city center in Baku.
If you are traveling from other cities in Azerbaijan, such as Ganja, Quba, or Lankaran, you can also take a bus or a train to Baku and then transfer to another bus or train to Sumqayit.
Where to stay in Sumqayit: hotels and guesthouses
Sumqayit has a range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, guesthouses, apartments, or hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Sumqayit:
Name
Type
Price
Features
Hotel
$50-100 per night
- 4-star hotel with modern rooms and suites- Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and airport shuttle- Restaurant, bar, fitness center, spa, and indoor pool- Close to the city center and the Caspian Sea
Hotel
$40-80 per night
- 3-star hotel with spacious rooms and apartments- Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and airport shuttle- Restaurant, bar, fitness center, sauna, and outdoor pool- Next to the Sumgait Olympic Sports Complex
Guesthouse
$20-40 per night
- Cozy guesthouse with private rooms and shared bathrooms- Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and laundry service- Kitchen, dining room, garden, and barbecue facilities- Near the Sumgait State Drama Theatre
Hostel
$10-20 per night
- Budget hostel with dorms and private rooms- Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and luggage storage- Shared kitchen, lounge, terrace, and library- Close to the Heydar Aliyev Park and the Flag Square
How to get around Sumqayit: buses, taxis, and bicycles
Once you are in Sumqayit, you have several options to get around the city and explore its attractions. The most common and convenient way to get around Sumqayit is by bus. There are many bus routes that cover the city and connect it to the surrounding areas. The bus fare is 0.2 manat (about $0.1) and you can pay with cash or a BakiKart (a smart card that can be used for public transportation in Baku and Sumqayit). You can find bus stops and timetables on the streets or online.
Another option is to take a taxi, which is more comfortable but also more expensive. The taxi fare is around 0.7 manat (about $0.4) per kilometer and you can pay with cash or a credit card. You can find taxis on the streets or order them by phone or online. Some of the reliable taxi companies in Sumqayit are Sumgait Taxi, Sumgait Express, and Sumgait City Taxi.
You can also rent a bicycle, which is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around Sumqayit. There are several bicycle rental stations in the city, where you can rent a bike for 1 manat (about $0.6) per hour or 5 manat (about $3) per day. You can also join guided bicycle tours that will take you to the most interesting places in Sumqayit and the Absheron Peninsula.
Conclusion
Summary of the main points
In conclusion, Sumqayit is a city that deserves your attention and visit. It is a city that has a lot to offer, from its history and culture to its nature and modernity. You can learn more about the events that shaped the city and its people, such as the Soviet industrialization, the Sumgait pogrom, and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. You can also experience the rich and diverse culture of the city, by watching performances at theatres, listening to music at concerts, tasting local cuisine at restaurants, and shopping at markets. You can also enjoy the beautiful and varied natural environment of the city, by relaxing at beaches, exploring parks and gardens, and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
Call to action for the readers
If you are looking for a destination that combines history, culture, nature, and modernity, you should not hesitate to visit Sumqayit. It is a city that will surprise you with its charm and dynamism. It is a city that will welcome you with its hospitality and warmth. It is a city that will make you want to come back again and again. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Sumqayit today and discover the second largest city in Azerbaijan.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Sumqayit?
The best time to visit Sumqayit is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the Caspian Sea is pleasant for swimming. The average temperature in this period ranges from 18C (64F) to 28C (82F). However, you should avoid visiting Sumqayit in July and August, when the temperature can reach up to 40C (104F) and the humidity is high.
What are some of the festivals and events in Sumqayit?
Some of the festivals and events that take place in Sumqayit are:
The International Theatre Festival "Sumgait-2020", which is held every year in September or October and features performances by theatre groups from Azerbaijan and other countries.
The International Jazz Festival "Sumgait-2020", which is held every year in November or December and showcases jazz musicians from Azerbaijan and other countries.
The National Flag Day, which is celebrated on November 9th and commemorates the adoption of the national flag of Azerbaijan in 1918.
The Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis, which is celebrated on December 31st and marks the unity of Azerbaijanis living in different parts of the world.
What are some of the souvenirs and specialties of Sumqayit?
Some of the souvenirs and specialties that you can buy in Sumqayit are:
Carpets and rugs, which are hand-woven by local artisans using wool, silk, or cotton.
Copperware, which are made by local craftsmen using copper and brass and decorated with various patterns and motifs.
Pottery, which are made by local potters using clay and glazed with different colors and designs.
Halva, which is a sweet confection made from flour, butter, sugar, and nuts.
Kutab, which is a thin pastry filled with meat, cheese, spinach, or pumpkin.
What are some of the safety tips for visiting Sumqayit?
Sumqayit is generally a safe city to visit, but you should still follow some basic safety tips, such as:
Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Keep your valuables and documents in a secure place or leave them at your hotel.
Beware of pickpockets and scammers in crowded places or public transportation.
Respect the local customs and laws and avoid any political or religious discussions.
Carry some cash with you as not all places accept credit cards or foreign currency.
What are some of the emergency numbers in Sumqayit?
In case of any emergency, you can call the following numbers in Sumqayit:
Service
Number
Police
102
Ambulance
103
Fire brigade
101
Gas service
104
Tourist information center
+994 12 498 12 44
44f88ac181
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