Nizami Street (Targovi) | Baku

Nizami Street, also known as Targovi, is Baku's primary pedestrian shopping street, located in the central Yasamal district of Azerbaijan's capital.

Visual Characteristics

The street is characterized by its 19th and early 20th-century architecture, featuring facades of sandstone and stucco in shades of cream, beige, and pale yellow. Buildings typically range from four to six stories in height, exhibiting neoclassical and Art Nouveau influences. The street is paved with granite and marble, and lined with trees and decorative lampposts.

Location & Access Logistics

Nizami Street is situated approximately 1.5 km west of the Caspian Sea coast and 1 km north of the Old City (Icherisheher). Access is primarily via public transport. The nearest metro stations are Sahil (Red Line, 0.8 km South-East) and Nizami (Green Line, 0.6 km North-West). Numerous bus routes serve the surrounding areas, including lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 14, 18, 37, 46, 53, 61, 65, 71, 88, 96, and 205. Limited street parking is available on adjacent side streets, but is often occupied. Paid parking garages are located near the Sahil metro station.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The street's development began in the mid-19th century as a commercial artery. It was significantly redeveloped and named after the 12th-century Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi in 1962. The architectural styles reflect the period of Baku's oil boom and subsequent urban planning.

Key Highlights & Activities

Shopping for retail goods, including clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. Dining at restaurants and cafes. Observing street performers and artists. Visiting the Nizami Cinema Center. Viewing architectural details of the historic buildings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public restrooms are available at intervals along the street, often associated with cafes or shopping centers. Shade is provided by trees and building overhangs. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the street. Numerous food vendors, cafes, and restaurants are present.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) offers softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) also provides favorable lighting. The street is active year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking. Summer months (June-August) can be very hot.

Facts & Legends

A specific architectural detail to note is the facade of the Nizami Cinema Center, which incorporates a bas-relief depicting Nizami Ganjavi himself. The street was once known as Torqovaya, a common Russian term for a commercial street.

Nearby Landmarks

• Old City (Icherisheher) - 1km South-East
• Fountain Square - 0.2km West
• Azerbaijan National Library - 0.7km North-West
• National Museum of Azerbaijan Literature named after Nizami Ganjavi - 0.3km North
• Government House - 1.2km South