International Mugam Centre, Baku

The International Mugham Centre in Baku serves as a pivotal institution dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and popularization of Azerbaijani mugham music. This musical genre is recognized as a part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscoring its global cultural significance. Strategically located in downtown Baku on Baku Boulevard, the Centre was inaugurated on December 27, 2008, with UNESCO's ninth Director-General, Koichiro Matsuura, in attendance, highlighting its international relevance.

The idea for this architectural marvel was initiated by Azerbaijan’s First Lady, Mehriban Aliyeva, and the Centre's design draws inspiration from the tar, a traditional Azerbaijani musical instrument essential to mugham performances. Designed by architects Vahid Tansu, Xauddin Yayk, and Etirne Ahmed, the building spans 7,500 square meters over three stories. Construction began in April 2005, with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation providing the necessary funding.

The Centre features a variety of facilities including a 350-seat concert hall, a club, the 80-seat "Ud" restaurant, study halls, and recording studios. It incorporates advanced heating and ventilation systems and was constructed using high-quality materials and equipment sourced from Italy, Austria, France, and Turkey.

The International Mugham Centre not only hosts Mugham festivals and concerts but also serves as a vibrant cultural hub where young performers can immerse themselves in the art of mugham. It hosts master classes, mugham evenings, international conferences, and festivals, contributing to the dynamic cultural landscape of Azerbaijan and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this traditional art form among local and global audiences.