Maiden Tower International Art Festival 2011


The Second International Art Festival «Qız Qalası» aims to popularize the most ancient, mysterious and universally valued monument of Azerbaijan – the Maiden Tower. This monument, located within the territory of Icherisheher, (the old city of Baku) is the symbol of the City of Fire, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Twenty-six famous artists from twenty-one different countries around the world will participate in this project. Decorating models of the Maiden Tower in their own national styles, they will create works of art reflecting the synthesis and the mutual exchange of different cultures and traditions. An exhibition consisting of the works of these artists will be held in Icherisheher for residents of Baku and visitors. In addition to these pieces being shown in Baku, the unique works of these artists will be exhibited in several countries around the world and will become an important tool to promote the Maiden Tower as a part of the world heritage of famous monuments. As a complement to its main program, the festival will include a kite painting event. Baku, also known as the City of Winds, is the ideal venue for this exhilarating activity. The kites will be painted to reflect the cultural traditions of the participating countries. Flown simultaneously, dozens of kites will adorn the sky with a fascinating variety of shapes, sizes and colors.

In addition to being a pearl of Azerbaijani architecture and a legacy of the ancient history and rich traditions of the nation, the Maiden Tower also makes a contribution to the enrichment of the international historical heritage and intercultural dialogue.