5 crafts to buy and try in Azerbaijan

Once a key stop on the Silk Road, this Central Asian nation has been producing exquisite crafts made from silk, wool and copper for centuries

1 CARPETS

Such is its importance, Azerbaijani carpet weaving is recognised by UNESCO for its intangible cultural heritage. South of Guba, villages even boast unique motifs, with blue-and-white floral patterns common in Pirebedil, while those in Gonagkend use a central medallion design. Learn more at Baku’s Carpet Museum (azcarpetmuseum.az), which was built to resemble a rolled-up rug.

2 COPPERWARE

Since the 4th century BC, coppersmiths in the mountain village of Lahij have been smelting copper into plates, which are then polished and inscribed with flower designs. Their UNESCO-recognised craft can be seen in Lahij Museum of Local History or within the larger National Museum of History of Azerbaijan (azhistorymuseum.gov.az/en) in Baku.

3 SILK HEADSCARVES