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G U B A
Guba is located on the northeastern slopes
of the Great Caucasus Mountains. Situated on the Gudial-chai
River, Guba is about 200 kilometers from Baku. Guba is known
as Azerbaijan's orchard. In this lush area grows a large percentage
of the fruits and vegetables produced in Azerbaijan. The fruit
is famous for its taste and variety - over 100 different kinds
of apples, pears, cherries and quince grow here in abundance.
The carpets of Guba are equally as famous. One such carpet,
which dates back to 1712 is on display at the New York Metropolitan
Museum of Art. Carpets from Guba are distinctive in their
workmanship and design and are sold all over the world. Guba
has an array of historic buildings from the 9th and the 16th
century – such as the two egg-shaped domes. It is a beautiful,
lush green and relaxing place to get in touch with nature
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L A H I J
 High
in the Caucasus is an ancient village cut off from the rest
of the world in winter and difficult to reach during summer.
It is, however, much worth the effort to get there. The village
is surrounded by towering mountains that are layered with
limestone, sandstone and clay. The houses, built from these
stones, are arranged randomly with flat roofs and some with
balconies facing the street. This village is home to coppersmiths
and carpet weavers; trades that have been passed down here,
generation to generation, since the Middle Ages. Beautiful
hand carved plates, goblets, trays and samovars are produced
in Lahij.
Of special interest in Lahij are tombstones that date back
more than 1,000 years. One of these tombs is said to be that
of Persia's Shah Kay Khosrow who retired in Lahij because
of its pleasant climate and picturesque scenery. The people
here consider themselves of Persian descent; even the name
Lahij is derived from a city in current-day Iran called Lahijan.
One of the most interesting places in Azerbaijan, Lahij is
reminiscent of the magical settings of tales of the Middle
Ages
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