Museum of Miniature Books | Baku

The Museum of Miniature Books is a specialized museum located in Baku, Azerbaijan, dedicated to the collection and display of small-format books.

It houses a diverse collection of miniature publications from various countries and historical periods.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is situated within a building that exhibits typical late 19th and early 20th-century Baku architecture. The interior exhibition space is designed to accommodate display cases for the small books. The books themselves vary in size, with some measuring only a few millimeters.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is located in the Old City (Icherisheher) of Baku. It is accessible by foot within the pedestrianized Old City area. The nearest public transport stops are the Icherisheher metro station, approximately 500 meters North-West, and bus routes that serve the Fountain Square area, also within walking distance. Parking is restricted within the Old City; visitors typically use designated parking areas outside the walls and proceed on foot.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was founded by Zarifa Salayeva, a librarian, who began collecting miniature books in 1982. The collection officially opened to the public in 2002. The building itself is part of the historic Icherisheher, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with structures dating back centuries.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view books from over 60 countries, including rare editions and books with unique binding techniques. Specific exhibits include the world's smallest book, measuring 0.75 x 0.95 mm, and miniature copies of classic literature and religious texts. Photography is permitted without flash.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The museum provides climate-controlled display areas. Restrooms are available within the museum complex. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the Old City. There are no on-site food vendors, but numerous cafes and restaurants are located within the surrounding Old City.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round. Weekday mornings generally have lower visitor numbers. The best time for photography of the books is during daylight hours when the internal lighting is sufficient for clear viewing of the small print.

Facts & Legends

A notable item in the collection is a miniature Quran, measuring 1.8 x 2.1 cm, printed in 1672. The museum's founder, Zarifa Salayeva, dedicated her life to amassing this unique collection, driven by a passion for the intricate craftsmanship of miniature books.

Nearby Landmarks

• Palace of the Shirvanshahs (0.2km North-West)
• Maiden Tower (0.3km North)
• Caravanserai Museum (0.1km West)
• Mosque of Muhammad (0.2km North)
• Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum (0.8km South-East)