Baku’s oil era in stone: The mansion of a 19th–20th-century merchant as a cultural landmark Journey through time

During the oil boom era, Baku transformed into a sparkling jewel of the Caucasus, where luxury and wealth were reflected in grand architectural designs. Magnificent palaces and apartment buildings appeared one after another, turning the city into a true open-air museum. Each of these masterpieces, built in various styles, not only amazed with its elegance but also reflected the ambitions and achievements of Azerbaijani oil magnates. These unique structures became symbols of the era and the pride of Baku, preserving the memory of a great time and inspiring new generations.

One of these magnificent houses was the home of the wealthy merchant Haji Samad Agha, a prominent figure of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Located on the former Lower Nagornaya Street, present-day Zulfi Adigozalov Street, this mansion, designed in classical style, stands as a striking example of Baku's architectural heritage.

The architectural appearance of the building impresses with its harmony and elegance. The facade features a compositional structure with elements of architectural order, two side avant-corps, and a striking rhythm of window openings. The subtle asymmetry of the facade does not disrupt the overall harmony but instead accentuates its uniqueness. Special attention is drawn to the axial interpretation in the form of a portal on the right side, adorned with small Corinthian columns.

The volumetric plasticity and richness of the architectural elements of the first and second floors reveal the entire depth of the house's composition, making it one of the most interesting residential buildings in Baku. The bay window balcony, made in the best traditions of wooden architecture, enchants with its fine carving and exquisite details, giving the house additional artistic value.

The architectural solutions of the building's interiors impress with their elegance and harmony, where each element reflects the richness of national traditions. Magnificent detailing and the use of specific ornaments create a sense of integrity and aesthetic perfection.

The interior design incorporates elements inspired by the traditions of the Shirvan-Absheron architectural school, which were stylized and adapted to the overall appearance of the building. Elegant Islamic ornaments decorating the ceilings lend the space sophistication and grandeur, while the carefully chosen color palette enhances this effect. At the same time, alongside national motifs, European decorative elements are seamlessly integrated, creating a harmonious blend of Eastern refinement and Western elegance. This combination highlights the uniqueness of the interior, making it not only a tribute to history but also a masterpiece of architectural craftsmanship.

This mansion holds a prestigious place among the most valuable buildings in the city, with its architectural and volumetric qualities making a significant contribution to shaping the historical appearance of Baku’s neighborhoods, preserving the spirit of the era and reflecting the city’s rich cultural history.

In 1922, at the initiative of Nariman Narimanov, a Cultural Center for girls was established on the second floor of the house — a cultural and educational institution, the first of its kind. Today, the center bears the name of Ibrahim Abilov, the first Azerbaijani diplomat to serve in Turkey. For some time, the building housed a branch of the Ali Bayramov Club, which later functioned as a Cultural Center. Despite the passing years, the building maintains its beauty and relevance, remaining a vibrant example of craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

This manor house is an integral part of Baku's architectural heritage, reflecting the luxury and sophistication of the oil boom era in its design. Its walls hold memories of a time when the city rapidly developed, transforming into the cultural and economic center of the region. Today, this house continues to impress with its architectural merits, reminding us of the glorious chapters of the past. Its preservation and restoration are crucial tasks for future generations, as such buildings shape the unique character of Baku and convey the spirit of a great era.

Vahid Shukurov, specially for Caliber.Az