State Philharmonic Hall, Baku

The Muslim Magomayev Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall, situated in Baku, stands as the principal concert venue in the country. Constructed between 1910 and 1912, this illustrious hall was commissioned by Baku's affluent class and designed by Gabriel Ter-Mikelov, a Soviet architect of Armenian descent. Its architectural inspiration comes from the Monte-Carlo Casino, specifically l'Opéra de Monte-Carlo, showcasing an exterior in the Italian Renaissance style and an interior in German Rococo.

Originally established as the Summer Center for Public Gatherings before 1936, the building served as an exclusive club for Baku's wealthy, hosting banquets and entertainment events. During the tumultuous Russian Civil War, it became a venue for public rallies. Notably, from 1918 to 1920, it hosted the meetings of the first parliament of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

In 1936, the venue was repurposed as a residence for the Philharmonic Society to foster the promotion of Azerbaijani classical and folk music. The building underwent significant restoration between 1936 and 1937, and on August 11, 1937, it was named in honor of the composer Muslim Magomayev. Today, the Philharmonic Hall features a Summer Hall with 1,100 seats and a Winter Hall with 610 seats, connected by a single stage, and supports seven performing groups.

Adjacent to the Baku fortress, the hall is complemented by a historical garden, initially established in 1830 as Mikhaelovsky Garden, named after the governor. Over the years, the garden expanded and was later transformed to accommodate the concert hall without extensive felling of trees. Renovations in the 1970s and 2007 have preserved its beauty, making it a cherished part of the Philharmonic's heritage. The Philharmonic Hall continues to be a cultural beacon in Azerbaijan, celebrating the rich musical traditions of the nation.