The 12th century's "Maiden Tower" is absolutely a symbol of Baku and of its "Old Town"! As its real origin and initial purposes are totally uncertain, legends and mysteries surround the monument. Since Zoroastrianism was practiced in ancient Azerbaijan, some believe it may have been a "Fire Temple" (as the "Ategash Fire Temple" near Baku) or a "Tower of Silence" (for sky burials, as seen in Yazd, Iran and Mumbai, India). Legends of true loves, of impossible loves or even incestuous loves and so on are told about this beautiful monument. Today, "Maiden Tower" houses a museum, telling Baku's history at every one of its floors. Climb its spiral staircases, visit the museum and reach the terrace, where awesome views of Baku and the Caspian Sea await you. No wonder, together with the "Palace of the Shirvanshahs", "Maiden Tower" was appointed by Unesco, in 2000, as a "World Heritage Site". Unmissable! Enjoy!

A must see in the centre of Baku's Old City. It's fairly easy to find whether you wander down here from the Old City, or walk in from the modern waterfront boulevard. There are still debates about what the original reason for the construction of the tower was, but on visiting it, you can get a ticket from the kiosk opposite, then head in and up the steps. There are several floors with exhibits before you reach the top, which has great panoramic views of the city.

I have not visited it in almost 40 years so don't recall well if a lot more has been done in the museum but was nice to ascend the tower with each floor telling the continuation of the story. I still refer the fairytale of the maiden who leaped to her death for love than it just being a watch tower. The architecture outside is just stunning and the view from the top is great.