Khinalug, one of Azerbaijan's ancient and mysterious corners, is known not only for its long history and unique language but also for the mystical sites it preserves. One of these sites is the sacred place called "Ateshgah." Located about 4-5 kilometers from the village of Khinalug, at an altitude of 2500-2600 meters above sea level, Ateshgah has been part of the belief system of the people living here for centuries.
The History and Mythology of Ateshgah
Ateshgah is called "Ca yuvr ciğa" (place of fire) in the Khinalug language. Here, a continuous flame is observed due to natural gas emerging from beneath the ground. The local people consider this fire sacred and have revered this place since ancient times. According to historical sources, Ateshgah also attracted fire worshippers from India in ancient times. They regarded it as a place of worship and offered prayers around the sacred fire. The famous researcher Adam Olearius (1599–1671) referred to the Caucasus Mountains as "Elburz" in his notes and mentioned the ever-burning fires there. According to him, Zoroastrians preserved and worshipped this sacred hearth. The fact that the fire never goes out contributed to the belief that this place possesses a divine power.
Archaeological Research of Ateshgah
Dr. Idris N. Aliyev, a researcher at the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, states that during archaeological excavations near Khinalug, traces of ancient sacrificial structures were discovered in this area. He notes that although most Khinalug residents are now Muslims, their religious views represent a syncretic blend of Islam and Zoroastrian beliefs. For this reason, respect and faith in fire continue to this day.
Khinalug Ateshgah: Past and Present
Ateshgahs, or fire temples, have been widespread across Azerbaijan throughout history. Especially during the Zoroastrian era, these temples, considered sacred, were known for flames that burned continuously due to natural gas seepages. Until 2016, at the existing Ateshgah, fire naturally emerged from the rocks. On October 5, 2016, with the support of the World Zoroastrian House, a working group led by engineer Farrukh Jorat took an important step toward restoring the ancient Ateshgah. In the area of Khinalug, the highest settlement in Azerbaijan, a new Fire Temple – the Zoroastrian Ateshgah – was reconstructed on the site of the ancient one. As part of this project, the Ateshgah and the House of Fires were rebuilt, carrying out significant work to preserve historical and religious values. After the temple’s reconstruction, the number of visitors, especially from India, began to increase. Fire worshippers come to the temple to perform rituals and prayers.
Visiting Ateshgah: What to Expect?
If you want to visit the Ateshgah temple, you can go on foot from the village of Khinalug or by off-road vehicles. After driving, there is approximately a 200-meter walk to reach the final section. The walking path is currently in good condition and relatively comfortable for travelers. It should be noted that before visiting the Ateshgah area, it is required to obtain permission from the State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
