On May 7, the Maiden Tower 5^th International Art Festival started in Icherisheher - on the square before the Maiden Tower.

The Festival is held by Icherisheher State History and Architecture Reserve Department under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the initiative and special support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and joint organizational support of IDEA (International Dialogue for Environmental Action) Public Association, the Museum of Modern Art and “Gyz Qalasy” Art Gallery.

This is the 5^th festival. Having been held since 2010, the “Maiden Tower” International Art Festival was so war held 3 consecutive times in Baku, and once in the French city of Cannes.

Traditionally held on the eve of national leader Heydar Aliyev’s birthday, the Festival’s primary objective is to promote the Azerbaijani culture and art, and to introduce the Maiden Tower – a symbol of Baku – to the world, through the works of artists coming from around the world.

29 renowned artists from 27 countries are participating in this year’s festival, which will continue until May 9.

At the festival, artists will create works reflecting the synthesis and exchange of different cultures and traditions, by decorating mock-ups of the Maiden Tower in their national styles. 

Organizers of the festival have decided to draw attention also to the protection of the environment. To this end, mock-ups of gazelles chosen as the symbol of the endangered “Caucasian Five” are made and decorated in special painting style.

This year, presentation of 3D art works – one of the world’s most popular street art – is planned to be held in Baku.

Ready mock-ups of the Maiden Tower will first be displayed in Icherisheher for Baku residents and guests of the capital, then in other countries.