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Well, this is one of the seven wonders of the world, and most known pieces of architecture on the planet. So, though this is all information you can find elsewhere, bear with me, and I'll try not to go overboard.
Because of its historical importance, there will be a lot of photos in this album from various perspectives.
Here we go...
Location: Rome, Italy, right next to the Roman Forum (which is in turn next to Circus Maximus). The Via dei Fori Imperiali is a wide street (where the forums of various emperors -- Caesar, Augustus, etc. -- were, and an ancient agora/marketplace. This is a great street to use as a leading line into shots of the Colosseum. (Via de San Gregorio coming from Circus Maximus in the south also has this potential, but not as ideal.). Nearby (but not within direct sight) are some famous churches: San Pietro in Vincoli and San Clemente are barely 10 minutes' walk from here.). Lastly, Domus Aurea (the Gold House) -- a former residence of the emperors during the Colosseum's heyday, is directly across the street to the north. (Domus Aurea is mainly ruins at this point.)
History: Rome converted from a republic to an empire around 44 B.C.. with Julius Caesar being the first emperor. He was long gone by the time the Colosseum was built (72-80 A.D.), but this was the height of the empire. So you can imagine a town bustling with activity, the main forum across the street with the temples to the pagan gods, and in another direction, the forums of the emperors.
Rome was riding high with conquests all around the Mediterranean and Europe. We're going to back up a little bit to about 50 A.D. This area was densely populated from around the 2nd century B.C. and by 50 A.D., the location here was served by a canal and manmade lake. It sits in a small valley between a few of Rome's hills (Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine Hills). In 64 A.D., during Nero's reign. (You often hear about Nero playing a fiddle as Rome burned...not true, that I can tell.). He had been emperor for 10 years by this time, and was 27 in 64 A.D.
After the fire, which burned about 70% of Rome, he took the liberty of amassing more land around the house he'd just built -- the aforementioned Domus Aurea. So, Nero is responsible for securing the real estate for its construction -- though he never knew it was going to be built. Why?
Nero died in 68 A.D. The next emperor of note was Vespasian, who assumed control in 69 A.D. -- with 4 other emperors between him and Nero. Vespasian was in charge from 69-79, and he's the one responsible for the construction of the Colosseum. The Romans wouldn't have known what you were talking about if you said, "Hey, where's the Colosseum?" To them, it was simply called, "the amphitheater." A few centuries later, it was called the Flavian Amphitheater (its official name; Vespasian was the progenitor of the Flavian Dynasty, which consisted of him and his two sons, Titus and Domitian, from 69-96 A.D.).
"Colosseum" was attached to it because of the massive statue that was in front of it that honored the previous emperor -- the Colossus of Nero. (Nero, by the way, is the one who had it built -- and it was originally in the vestibule of his house, the Domus Aurea. Seems odd that it was in a vestibule, though, because it was 30 meters (98 feet) tall. After Nero's untimely death at the age of 30, the colossus was eventually moved across the street and placed outside the Flavian Amphitheatre. (It's long gone now, but the location is marked by cypress trees on the northwest part of the building where most tourist groups queue to go in.)
Sidebar on the history of Nero's statue: After he died, it was converted by Vespasian into a statue that honored the sun god -- Colossus Solis. Emperor Hadrian, in 128 A.D. is the one responsible for having it moved from Domus Aurea to its final location next to the Colosseum. Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix's character in the movie Gladiator) had the statue refashioned in his own image -- as Hercules, which would have been at the end of the 2nd century A.D. Nobody knows for certain when the statue disappeared or how. It may have been sacked and its metal melted down and repurposed, it may have been destroyed in an earthquake, it may have been standing around the early Middle Ages. The theory, though, is that this amphitheater is now called the Colosseum because of this statue that's been lost to time -- only the base still remains.
Back to the actual building. Vespasian filled in Nero's private lake and had the amphitheater built, probably as a gesture to appease the masses. And this amphitheater was used for public spectacles, among them executions, but most famously gladiatorial combat (which could be animal vs. animal, people vs. animal, or people vs. people).
The building is actually two amphitheaters face-to-face, forming an oval. It's about 1/3 mile in circumference and housed about 50,000 people when it was finished. (In its time, it was the largest amphitheater in the world, by far. For modern-day comparison, it holds about half the number of the largest stadiums in the world. A number of college football stadiums in the U.S. hold 100,000 or more, and another 5-10 stadiums around the world hold over 100,000.). Still, 50,000 in 80 A.D. was a lot.
As mentioned above, construction took place from 72-80 A.D. Vespasian, though, kicked the can in 79 A.D. He, at least, died of old age (69 years old). At the time of his death, the first three levels were completed. He was succeeded by his son Titus, who polished off construction of the fourth level in 80 A.D.
His brother Domitian upgraded it a little more. He's the one who is responsible for the tunnels under the Colosseum floor that animals and slaves used. He also added a gallery to the top for additional seating. (Think: ancient skyboxes.)
The inaugural games were in 80 or 81 A.D. Historical accounts of the time report that over 9,000 wild animals were killed during the inaugural games. (Wow...). So what did the building look like back then?
When approaching the amphitheater, you would have seen a massive, brilliant white building, 160 feet (about 50 meters) tall, with painted trim. It looked light and airy, thanks to all of the arches (though, as it was built out of concrete, it was durable). In addition to the Colossus of Nero (or Solis, or Commodus/Hercules), you might have also seen monumental statues of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses in the arches of the middle two stories. Zeus, Venus, Hercules would have been looking down on you. At the top of the building, you would have seen wooden beams sticking straight up. These were to hold a canvas that stretched across to provide shade for the people. (If I'm not mistaken, it was a bit like an oculus, so the Colosseum floor would be sunlit at high noon, but the seating would be in the shade.). You may have also noticed a nod to Greek architecture: the columns of the three levels are built in the three Greek styles -- Doric on the bottom, Ionic (scroll) on the second level, and Corinthian (leafy) on the third level.
When entering now, try to imagine what it would be like 2,000 years ago: You have a ticket in your hand (most likely a piece of pottery) which lists your section, seat number, everything. You enter one of 76 possible gates -- just not the emperor's private entrance. The emperor and vestal virgins would enter there. You pass concession stands, where you can buy wine glasses with the names of your favorite gladiators. From the concourse, you pass through a hallway -- called a vomitorium -- that takes you into the arena proper. You may get bored and carve your name into seats, making it some of history's oldest-known graffiti. Afterwards, you exit once again through the vomitorium, and spill out into the streets. (It's said that they could fill and empty the stadium in a cool 15 minutes. And fun fact? The way English uses the word vomit comes from these vomitorium. Ejecting things rapidly from inside out.)
In 2024, when you walk into the arena proper, you are actually seeing the tunnels that would've been underneath the floor. (There's a recreation of the floor at the east end.). The size of the floor roughly mirrored what is historically considered the "golden ratio" (1.6:1) at 280 feet long by 165 feet wide. (A standard tour won't take you down to the arena floor, but you can take private tours that go down to the tunnels.)
The wooden floor (imagine the eastern end, but stretched over the whole "ground" was covered with sand. The Latin (and Spanish) word for sand? Arena...
Seating was segregated. Ringside had marble seats for the emperor, senators, the Vestal Virgina, and other VIPs. The next level up was for nobility (patrician class). The level that tourists walk now was reserved for the plebeian class -- ordinary, free Romans. The very top level had wooden seats for the poorest of society: foreigners, slaves, and women.
What would the games have looked like? They were an all day affair. In the early morning, you'd see the animals, sometimes fighting each other, and sometimes just showing off exotic animals from the far corners of the empire. This is also when you might have seen man vs. beast spectacles. Then came lunch, when it was time to get down to serious business. This is when criminals and POWs were executed. Sometimes they were thrown to the lions, naked and unarmed. Other times, they were forced to dress up as classical heroes and star in a play featuring their own death, being attacked by animals or gladiators, and dying in the way the legendary hero they portrayed had died. Between acts, you'd see clowns, jugglers, and other entertainers. Finally, in the afternoon, was the main event: the gladiators. (This, by the way, is a bit of a misnomer: there were many different types of fighters, and they were called by the name of their weapon. Gladiators used a gladius -- a short sword.)
The inaugural games, as mentioned above, were in 80 or 81 A.D. and lasted for 100 days. About 9,000 animals died, and 2,000 people. (Roughly one person died every five minutes.). Imagine the amount of blood that would produce, and its stench. This was countered by wandering around between "acts" and spraying perfume.
The first games were in 80-81, and the last gladiatorial (man-to-man) combat took place in the 5th century. (Rome had become Christian in 313 A.D. and Emperor Honorius banned the practice in 399 and again in 404. The last recorded fights took place in 435 A.D. Animal hunts and animal fights took place for another century. The Roman Empire was all but over iaround 500 A.D., and the Colosseum, like the city, was about to enter a centuries-long stretch of neglect.
From the end of the last of the hunts until 1200 A.D., the Colosseum saw a small chapel built in the amphitheater, and also use as a cemetery. Around 1200, a powerful family took over and converted the Colosseum into a personal castle with fortifications. About a hundred years later, the papacy left Rome and was based in Avignon, France. During this time, the Colosseum was abandoned once again and left to the whims of bandits. (They would have looted whatever they could: marble, iron, anything. When you look around, you'll see a lot of holes in the concrete; this is where iron beams and decorations were, but they were all stolen over the years.)
The south side of the Colosseum collapsed in a great earthquake in 1349. In 1377, the Pope returned to Rome and the Colosseum was restored. A few centuries later in 1749, Pope Benedict XIV said that, since early Christians had been martyred here, this is now a sacred place. (There's a cross that you'll see early on in the tour, as soon as you enter the arena.)
As you get over to the west side of the arena, you have a chance to step out and see the surroundings. Directly across the street in front of you is the Temple of Venus and Rome. Directly down to the left is the Arch of Constantine. The most obvious of the three hills mentioned earlier is the Palatine Hill, which you can see beyond the Arch of Constantine and the Roman Forum. (Equiline Hill would be to the north/northeast, and the Caelian Hill is out of view to the south.
Dwell for one last moment on the Arch of Constantine. Constantine was a consequential emperor who had an indelible impact on history. In 312 A.D., he has a vision one night of a cross in the sky. He was about to go into battle with Emperor Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. He took the cross as a sign that, if he won, he needed to convert Rome into a Christian empire. In 300 A.D. (under Maxentius), you could be killed for being a Christian. A century later, you could be killed for not being a Christian. Constantine and his vision are the driving force behind this. (His mother and sister had already become Christians. So in 312, Christianity was legalized in the empire.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
The cooled conservatories - the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest have just won the World Architecture Festival 2012's "Building of the Year" award.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
Well, this is one of the seven wonders of the world, and most known pieces of architecture on the planet. So, though this is all information you can find elsewhere, bear with me, and I'll try not to go overboard.
Because of its historical importance, there will be a lot of photos in this album from various perspectives.
Here we go...
Location: Rome, Italy, right next to the Roman Forum (which is in turn next to Circus Maximus). The Via dei Fori Imperiali is a wide street (where the forums of various emperors -- Caesar, Augustus, etc. -- were, and an ancient agora/marketplace. This is a great street to use as a leading line into shots of the Colosseum. (Via de San Gregorio coming from Circus Maximus in the south also has this potential, but not as ideal.). Nearby (but not within direct sight) are some famous churches: San Pietro in Vincoli and San Clemente are barely 10 minutes' walk from here.). Lastly, Domus Aurea (the Gold House) -- a former residence of the emperors during the Colosseum's heyday, is directly across the street to the north. (Domus Aurea is mainly ruins at this point.)
History: Rome converted from a republic to an empire around 44 B.C.. with Julius Caesar being the first emperor. He was long gone by the time the Colosseum was built (72-80 A.D.), but this was the height of the empire. So you can imagine a town bustling with activity, the main forum across the street with the temples to the pagan gods, and in another direction, the forums of the emperors.
Rome was riding high with conquests all around the Mediterranean and Europe. We're going to back up a little bit to about 50 A.D. This area was densely populated from around the 2nd century B.C. and by 50 A.D., the location here was served by a canal and manmade lake. It sits in a small valley between a few of Rome's hills (Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine Hills). In 64 A.D., during Nero's reign. (You often hear about Nero playing a fiddle as Rome burned...not true, that I can tell.). He had been emperor for 10 years by this time, and was 27 in 64 A.D.
After the fire, which burned about 70% of Rome, he took the liberty of amassing more land around the house he'd just built -- the aforementioned Domus Aurea. So, Nero is responsible for securing the real estate for its construction -- though he never knew it was going to be built. Why?
Nero died in 68 A.D. The next emperor of note was Vespasian, who assumed control in 69 A.D. -- with 4 other emperors between him and Nero. Vespasian was in charge from 69-79, and he's the one responsible for the construction of the Colosseum. The Romans wouldn't have known what you were talking about if you said, "Hey, where's the Colosseum?" To them, it was simply called, "the amphitheater." A few centuries later, it was called the Flavian Amphitheater (its official name; Vespasian was the progenitor of the Flavian Dynasty, which consisted of him and his two sons, Titus and Domitian, from 69-96 A.D.).
"Colosseum" was attached to it because of the massive statue that was in front of it that honored the previous emperor -- the Colossus of Nero. (Nero, by the way, is the one who had it built -- and it was originally in the vestibule of his house, the Domus Aurea. Seems odd that it was in a vestibule, though, because it was 30 meters (98 feet) tall. After Nero's untimely death at the age of 30, the colossus was eventually moved across the street and placed outside the Flavian Amphitheatre. (It's long gone now, but the location is marked by cypress trees on the northwest part of the building where most tourist groups queue to go in.)
Sidebar on the history of Nero's statue: After he died, it was converted by Vespasian into a statue that honored the sun god -- Colossus Solis. Emperor Hadrian, in 128 A.D. is the one responsible for having it moved from Domus Aurea to its final location next to the Colosseum. Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix's character in the movie Gladiator) had the statue refashioned in his own image -- as Hercules, which would have been at the end of the 2nd century A.D. Nobody knows for certain when the statue disappeared or how. It may have been sacked and its metal melted down and repurposed, it may have been destroyed in an earthquake, it may have been standing around the early Middle Ages. The theory, though, is that this amphitheater is now called the Colosseum because of this statue that's been lost to time -- only the base still remains.
Back to the actual building. Vespasian filled in Nero's private lake and had the amphitheater built, probably as a gesture to appease the masses. And this amphitheater was used for public spectacles, among them executions, but most famously gladiatorial combat (which could be animal vs. animal, people vs. animal, or people vs. people).
The building is actually two amphitheaters face-to-face, forming an oval. It's about 1/3 mile in circumference and housed about 50,000 people when it was finished. (In its time, it was the largest amphitheater in the world, by far. For modern-day comparison, it holds about half the number of the largest stadiums in the world. A number of college football stadiums in the U.S. hold 100,000 or more, and another 5-10 stadiums around the world hold over 100,000.). Still, 50,000 in 80 A.D. was a lot.
As mentioned above, construction took place from 72-80 A.D. Vespasian, though, kicked the can in 79 A.D. He, at least, died of old age (69 years old). At the time of his death, the first three levels were completed. He was succeeded by his son Titus, who polished off construction of the fourth level in 80 A.D.
His brother Domitian upgraded it a little more. He's the one who is responsible for the tunnels under the Colosseum floor that animals and slaves used. He also added a gallery to the top for additional seating. (Think: ancient skyboxes.)
The inaugural games were in 80 or 81 A.D. Historical accounts of the time report that over 9,000 wild animals were killed during the inaugural games. (Wow...). So what did the building look like back then?
When approaching the amphitheater, you would have seen a massive, brilliant white building, 160 feet (about 50 meters) tall, with painted trim. It looked light and airy, thanks to all of the arches (though, as it was built out of concrete, it was durable). In addition to the Colossus of Nero (or Solis, or Commodus/Hercules), you might have also seen monumental statues of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses in the arches of the middle two stories. Zeus, Venus, Hercules would have been looking down on you. At the top of the building, you would have seen wooden beams sticking straight up. These were to hold a canvas that stretched across to provide shade for the people. (If I'm not mistaken, it was a bit like an oculus, so the Colosseum floor would be sunlit at high noon, but the seating would be in the shade.). You may have also noticed a nod to Greek architecture: the columns of the three levels are built in the three Greek styles -- Doric on the bottom, Ionic (scroll) on the second level, and Corinthian (leafy) on the third level.
When entering now, try to imagine what it would be like 2,000 years ago: You have a ticket in your hand (most likely a piece of pottery) which lists your section, seat number, everything. You enter one of 76 possible gates -- just not the emperor's private entrance. The emperor and vestal virgins would enter there. You pass concession stands, where you can buy wine glasses with the names of your favorite gladiators. From the concourse, you pass through a hallway -- called a vomitorium -- that takes you into the arena proper. You may get bored and carve your name into seats, making it some of history's oldest-known graffiti. Afterwards, you exit once again through the vomitorium, and spill out into the streets. (It's said that they could fill and empty the stadium in a cool 15 minutes. And fun fact? The way English uses the word vomit comes from these vomitorium. Ejecting things rapidly from inside out.)
In 2024, when you walk into the arena proper, you are actually seeing the tunnels that would've been underneath the floor. (There's a recreation of the floor at the east end.). The size of the floor roughly mirrored what is historically considered the "golden ratio" (1.6:1) at 280 feet long by 165 feet wide. (A standard tour won't take you down to the arena floor, but you can take private tours that go down to the tunnels.)
The wooden floor (imagine the eastern end, but stretched over the whole "ground" was covered with sand. The Latin (and Spanish) word for sand? Arena...
Seating was segregated. Ringside had marble seats for the emperor, senators, the Vestal Virgina, and other VIPs. The next level up was for nobility (patrician class). The level that tourists walk now was reserved for the plebeian class -- ordinary, free Romans. The very top level had wooden seats for the poorest of society: foreigners, slaves, and women.
What would the games have looked like? They were an all day affair. In the early morning, you'd see the animals, sometimes fighting each other, and sometimes just showing off exotic animals from the far corners of the empire. This is also when you might have seen man vs. beast spectacles. Then came lunch, when it was time to get down to serious business. This is when criminals and POWs were executed. Sometimes they were thrown to the lions, naked and unarmed. Other times, they were forced to dress up as classical heroes and star in a play featuring their own death, being attacked by animals or gladiators, and dying in the way the legendary hero they portrayed had died. Between acts, you'd see clowns, jugglers, and other entertainers. Finally, in the afternoon, was the main event: the gladiators. (This, by the way, is a bit of a misnomer: there were many different types of fighters, and they were called by the name of their weapon. Gladiators used a gladius -- a short sword.)
The inaugural games, as mentioned above, were in 80 or 81 A.D. and lasted for 100 days. About 9,000 animals died, and 2,000 people. (Roughly one person died every five minutes.). Imagine the amount of blood that would produce, and its stench. This was countered by wandering around between "acts" and spraying perfume.
The first games were in 80-81, and the last gladiatorial (man-to-man) combat took place in the 5th century. (Rome had become Christian in 313 A.D. and Emperor Honorius banned the practice in 399 and again in 404. The last recorded fights took place in 435 A.D. Animal hunts and animal fights took place for another century. The Roman Empire was all but over iaround 500 A.D., and the Colosseum, like the city, was about to enter a centuries-long stretch of neglect.
From the end of the last of the hunts until 1200 A.D., the Colosseum saw a small chapel built in the amphitheater, and also use as a cemetery. Around 1200, a powerful family took over and converted the Colosseum into a personal castle with fortifications. About a hundred years later, the papacy left Rome and was based in Avignon, France. During this time, the Colosseum was abandoned once again and left to the whims of bandits. (They would have looted whatever they could: marble, iron, anything. When you look around, you'll see a lot of holes in the concrete; this is where iron beams and decorations were, but they were all stolen over the years.)
The south side of the Colosseum collapsed in a great earthquake in 1349. In 1377, the Pope returned to Rome and the Colosseum was restored. A few centuries later in 1749, Pope Benedict XIV said that, since early Christians had been martyred here, this is now a sacred place. (There's a cross that you'll see early on in the tour, as soon as you enter the arena.)
As you get over to the west side of the arena, you have a chance to step out and see the surroundings. Directly across the street in front of you is the Temple of Venus and Rome. Directly down to the left is the Arch of Constantine. The most obvious of the three hills mentioned earlier is the Palatine Hill, which you can see beyond the Arch of Constantine and the Roman Forum. (Equiline Hill would be to the north/northeast, and the Caelian Hill is out of view to the south.
Dwell for one last moment on the Arch of Constantine. Constantine was a consequential emperor who had an indelible impact on history. In 312 A.D., he has a vision one night of a cross in the sky. He was about to go into battle with Emperor Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. He took the cross as a sign that, if he won, he needed to convert Rome into a Christian empire. In 300 A.D. (under Maxentius), you could be killed for being a Christian. A century later, you could be killed for not being a Christian. Constantine and his vision are the driving force behind this. (His mother and sister had already become Christians. So in 312, Christianity was legalized in the empire.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.
Well, this is one of the seven wonders of the world, and most known pieces of architecture on the planet. So, though this is all information you can find elsewhere, bear with me, and I'll try not to go overboard.
Because of its historical importance, there will be a lot of photos in this album from various perspectives.
Here we go...
Location: Rome, Italy, right next to the Roman Forum (which is in turn next to Circus Maximus). The Via dei Fori Imperiali is a wide street (where the forums of various emperors -- Caesar, Augustus, etc. -- were, and an ancient agora/marketplace. This is a great street to use as a leading line into shots of the Colosseum. (Via de San Gregorio coming from Circus Maximus in the south also has this potential, but not as ideal.). Nearby (but not within direct sight) are some famous churches: San Pietro in Vincoli and San Clemente are barely 10 minutes' walk from here.). Lastly, Domus Aurea (the Gold House) -- a former residence of the emperors during the Colosseum's heyday, is directly across the street to the north. (Domus Aurea is mainly ruins at this point.)
History: Rome converted from a republic to an empire around 44 B.C.. with Julius Caesar being the first emperor. He was long gone by the time the Colosseum was built (72-80 A.D.), but this was the height of the empire. So you can imagine a town bustling with activity, the main forum across the street with the temples to the pagan gods, and in another direction, the forums of the emperors.
Rome was riding high with conquests all around the Mediterranean and Europe. We're going to back up a little bit to about 50 A.D. This area was densely populated from around the 2nd century B.C. and by 50 A.D., the location here was served by a canal and manmade lake. It sits in a small valley between a few of Rome's hills (Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine Hills). In 64 A.D., during Nero's reign. (You often hear about Nero playing a fiddle as Rome burned...not true, that I can tell.). He had been emperor for 10 years by this time, and was 27 in 64 A.D.
After the fire, which burned about 70% of Rome, he took the liberty of amassing more land around the house he'd just built -- the aforementioned Domus Aurea. So, Nero is responsible for securing the real estate for its construction -- though he never knew it was going to be built. Why?
Nero died in 68 A.D. The next emperor of note was Vespasian, who assumed control in 69 A.D. -- with 4 other emperors between him and Nero. Vespasian was in charge from 69-79, and he's the one responsible for the construction of the Colosseum. The Romans wouldn't have known what you were talking about if you said, "Hey, where's the Colosseum?" To them, it was simply called, "the amphitheater." A few centuries later, it was called the Flavian Amphitheater (its official name; Vespasian was the progenitor of the Flavian Dynasty, which consisted of him and his two sons, Titus and Domitian, from 69-96 A.D.).
"Colosseum" was attached to it because of the massive statue that was in front of it that honored the previous emperor -- the Colossus of Nero. (Nero, by the way, is the one who had it built -- and it was originally in the vestibule of his house, the Domus Aurea. Seems odd that it was in a vestibule, though, because it was 30 meters (98 feet) tall. After Nero's untimely death at the age of 30, the colossus was eventually moved across the street and placed outside the Flavian Amphitheatre. (It's long gone now, but the location is marked by cypress trees on the northwest part of the building where most tourist groups queue to go in.)
Sidebar on the history of Nero's statue: After he died, it was converted by Vespasian into a statue that honored the sun god -- Colossus Solis. Emperor Hadrian, in 128 A.D. is the one responsible for having it moved from Domus Aurea to its final location next to the Colosseum. Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix's character in the movie Gladiator) had the statue refashioned in his own image -- as Hercules, which would have been at the end of the 2nd century A.D. Nobody knows for certain when the statue disappeared or how. It may have been sacked and its metal melted down and repurposed, it may have been destroyed in an earthquake, it may have been standing around the early Middle Ages. The theory, though, is that this amphitheater is now called the Colosseum because of this statue that's been lost to time -- only the base still remains.
Back to the actual building. Vespasian filled in Nero's private lake and had the amphitheater built, probably as a gesture to appease the masses. And this amphitheater was used for public spectacles, among them executions, but most famously gladiatorial combat (which could be animal vs. animal, people vs. animal, or people vs. people).
The building is actually two amphitheaters face-to-face, forming an oval. It's about 1/3 mile in circumference and housed about 50,000 people when it was finished. (In its time, it was the largest amphitheater in the world, by far. For modern-day comparison, it holds about half the number of the largest stadiums in the world. A number of college football stadiums in the U.S. hold 100,000 or more, and another 5-10 stadiums around the world hold over 100,000.). Still, 50,000 in 80 A.D. was a lot.
As mentioned above, construction took place from 72-80 A.D. Vespasian, though, kicked the can in 79 A.D. He, at least, died of old age (69 years old). At the time of his death, the first three levels were completed. He was succeeded by his son Titus, who polished off construction of the fourth level in 80 A.D.
His brother Domitian upgraded it a little more. He's the one who is responsible for the tunnels under the Colosseum floor that animals and slaves used. He also added a gallery to the top for additional seating. (Think: ancient skyboxes.)
The inaugural games were in 80 or 81 A.D. Historical accounts of the time report that over 9,000 wild animals were killed during the inaugural games. (Wow...). So what did the building look like back then?
When approaching the amphitheater, you would have seen a massive, brilliant white building, 160 feet (about 50 meters) tall, with painted trim. It looked light and airy, thanks to all of the arches (though, as it was built out of concrete, it was durable). In addition to the Colossus of Nero (or Solis, or Commodus/Hercules), you might have also seen monumental statues of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses in the arches of the middle two stories. Zeus, Venus, Hercules would have been looking down on you. At the top of the building, you would have seen wooden beams sticking straight up. These were to hold a canvas that stretched across to provide shade for the people. (If I'm not mistaken, it was a bit like an oculus, so the Colosseum floor would be sunlit at high noon, but the seating would be in the shade.). You may have also noticed a nod to Greek architecture: the columns of the three levels are built in the three Greek styles -- Doric on the bottom, Ionic (scroll) on the second level, and Corinthian (leafy) on the third level.
When entering now, try to imagine what it would be like 2,000 years ago: You have a ticket in your hand (most likely a piece of pottery) which lists your section, seat number, everything. You enter one of 76 possible gates -- just not the emperor's private entrance. The emperor and vestal virgins would enter there. You pass concession stands, where you can buy wine glasses with the names of your favorite gladiators. From the concourse, you pass through a hallway -- called a vomitorium -- that takes you into the arena proper. You may get bored and carve your name into seats, making it some of history's oldest-known graffiti. Afterwards, you exit once again through the vomitorium, and spill out into the streets. (It's said that they could fill and empty the stadium in a cool 15 minutes. And fun fact? The way English uses the word vomit comes from these vomitorium. Ejecting things rapidly from inside out.)
In 2024, when you walk into the arena proper, you are actually seeing the tunnels that would've been underneath the floor. (There's a recreation of the floor at the east end.). The size of the floor roughly mirrored what is historically considered the "golden ratio" (1.6:1) at 280 feet long by 165 feet wide. (A standard tour won't take you down to the arena floor, but you can take private tours that go down to the tunnels.)
The wooden floor (imagine the eastern end, but stretched over the whole "ground" was covered with sand. The Latin (and Spanish) word for sand? Arena...
Seating was segregated. Ringside had marble seats for the emperor, senators, the Vestal Virgina, and other VIPs. The next level up was for nobility (patrician class). The level that tourists walk now was reserved for the plebeian class -- ordinary, free Romans. The very top level had wooden seats for the poorest of society: foreigners, slaves, and women.
What would the games have looked like? They were an all day affair. In the early morning, you'd see the animals, sometimes fighting each other, and sometimes just showing off exotic animals from the far corners of the empire. This is also when you might have seen man vs. beast spectacles. Then came lunch, when it was time to get down to serious business. This is when criminals and POWs were executed. Sometimes they were thrown to the lions, naked and unarmed. Other times, they were forced to dress up as classical heroes and star in a play featuring their own death, being attacked by animals or gladiators, and dying in the way the legendary hero they portrayed had died. Between acts, you'd see clowns, jugglers, and other entertainers. Finally, in the afternoon, was the main event: the gladiators. (This, by the way, is a bit of a misnomer: there were many different types of fighters, and they were called by the name of their weapon. Gladiators used a gladius -- a short sword.)
The inaugural games, as mentioned above, were in 80 or 81 A.D. and lasted for 100 days. About 9,000 animals died, and 2,000 people. (Roughly one person died every five minutes.). Imagine the amount of blood that would produce, and its stench. This was countered by wandering around between "acts" and spraying perfume.
The first games were in 80-81, and the last gladiatorial (man-to-man) combat took place in the 5th century. (Rome had become Christian in 313 A.D. and Emperor Honorius banned the practice in 399 and again in 404. The last recorded fights took place in 435 A.D. Animal hunts and animal fights took place for another century. The Roman Empire was all but over iaround 500 A.D., and the Colosseum, like the city, was about to enter a centuries-long stretch of neglect.
From the end of the last of the hunts until 1200 A.D., the Colosseum saw a small chapel built in the amphitheater, and also use as a cemetery. Around 1200, a powerful family took over and converted the Colosseum into a personal castle with fortifications. About a hundred years later, the papacy left Rome and was based in Avignon, France. During this time, the Colosseum was abandoned once again and left to the whims of bandits. (They would have looted whatever they could: marble, iron, anything. When you look around, you'll see a lot of holes in the concrete; this is where iron beams and decorations were, but they were all stolen over the years.)
The south side of the Colosseum collapsed in a great earthquake in 1349. In 1377, the Pope returned to Rome and the Colosseum was restored. A few centuries later in 1749, Pope Benedict XIV said that, since early Christians had been martyred here, this is now a sacred place. (There's a cross that you'll see early on in the tour, as soon as you enter the arena.)
As you get over to the west side of the arena, you have a chance to step out and see the surroundings. Directly across the street in front of you is the Temple of Venus and Rome. Directly down to the left is the Arch of Constantine. The most obvious of the three hills mentioned earlier is the Palatine Hill, which you can see beyond the Arch of Constantine and the Roman Forum. (Equiline Hill would be to the north/northeast, and the Caelian Hill is out of view to the south.
Dwell for one last moment on the Arch of Constantine. Constantine was a consequential emperor who had an indelible impact on history. In 312 A.D., he has a vision one night of a cross in the sky. He was about to go into battle with Emperor Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. He took the cross as a sign that, if he won, he needed to convert Rome into a Christian empire. In 300 A.D. (under Maxentius), you could be killed for being a Christian. A century later, you could be killed for not being a Christian. Constantine and his vision are the driving force behind this. (His mother and sister had already become Christians. So in 312, Christianity was legalized in the empire.
The Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijani: Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi) is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by actors that are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies.
The center is named after Heydar Aliyev (1923–2003), the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
Design
In 2007, Zaha Hadid was appointed as the design architect of the Center after a competition. The Center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku.
The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape's natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside, the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the Center.
The Heydar Aliyev Center had an official soft-opening ceremony on 10 May 2012 held by the president of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Extending on eight floor levels, the center accommodates a 1,000-seat auditorium, temporary exhibition spaces, a conference center, workshops, and a museum.
The building was nominated for awards in 2013 at both the World Architecture Festival and the biennial Inside Festival. In 2014, the Center won the Design Museum's Design of the Year Award 2014 despite concerns about the site's human rights record. This makes Hadid the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
In popular culture
The building was featured in Extreme Engineering, a documentary television series that airs on the Discovery Channel and the Science Channel. The episode called "Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation" was aired on 22 April 2011 as part of season 9. The building was seen on The Grand Tour episode entitled "Sea to unsalty sea," with presenter Jeremy Clarkson praising the building and Hadid. The building was also featured on the "postcard" of Samra Rahimli for the postcard of Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and in a Google Doodle in 2017.
Interior
On 29 June 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center held the official opening of Crans Montana Forum, attended by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Macedonia Gjorge Ivanov, President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, as well as foreign public figures, MPs, intellectuals, and business circles.
On 3 July 2012, the Center held the ceremony of the official seeing-off of the Azerbaijani delegation to take part in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. The ceremony was attended by the President Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva. Photo banners reflecting the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan were installed in the lobby of the Heydar Aliyev Center. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the ceremony.
After repairs following a major fire (see below), on 2 and 3 November 2013, the Moscow music theater Helikon Opera under the direction of the People's Artist of Russia Dmitry Bertman, presented performances at the Heydar Aliyev Center. On 2 November, the Helikon-Opera presented a gala concert "The Enduring Love", a program that included lyric songs by Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and the Beatles. On 3 November, the artists performed the opera Siberia by the Italian composer Umberto Giordano staged by Dmitry Bertmann.
Exhibitions
"Life, Death, and Beauty"
On 21 June 2013, the Center held the exhibition of works by American artist Andy Warhol titled "Life, Death, and Beauty" supervised by Gianni Mercurio, dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. The exhibition for the first time in Azerbaijan displayed over one hundred works by the artist, including featurettes by Warhol. There were shown photos of the author, portraits of the world film, music, and fashion stars, as well as other world-renowned works, including Flowers, Camouflage, The Last Supper, Male Hands Praying, and Electric Chair. On 6 August, the artist's birthday, Baku residents and visitors could freely visit the exhibition, which ran until 9 September.
"At the turn of the century"
On 1 October 2013, the Heydar Aliyev Center held a personal exhibition of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, vice-president of the Russian Academy of Arts Tahir Salahov, titled "At the turn of the century". The exhibition was dated for the 85th anniversary of the artist. His great contribution to the development of Azerbaijani fine art was highlighted at the exhibition opening. The artistic heritage of Salahov is an integral part of the art of not only Azerbaijan, but also the entire former Soviet Union. He is recognized as one of the founders of the "severe style" in painting. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the artist, created at different times, and his works on the carpets. Among the exhibits were the portraits of Heydar Aliyev, the composer Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, the musician Mstislav Rostropovich, the works Aidan, Morning. Absheron, Koroglu, Absheron triptych – Ateshgah, The Caspian today, Maiden Tower, and other well-known works of the people's artist. The exhibition ran until 8 November 2013.
In 2017, the center also opened its doors to the Contemporary Turkish Art Exhibition, a collection of art pieces by various Turkish artists.
"Masterpieces of History" exhibition
On 27 May 2019, the Heydar Aliyev Center hosted the "Masterpieces of History" exhibition, which included ancient artifacts from Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The majority of artifacts belong to Gajar epoch and include ceramic and metal works, canvases, miniatures and belongings of Fatali Khan, including his portrait.
The exhibition also featured photographic collection by Dmitri Yermakov, a participant of the Russian-Ottoman War of 1877-1878.
"Hyperrealistic Sculpture. Almost Alive" exhibition
On 29 November 2018, the Almost Alive exhibition was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition consisted of deformed figures of extraordinary dimensions, monochrome statues, and pieces representing various body parts.
The exhibition featured works created by Daniel Firman, Duane Hanson, Tony Matelli, Mel Ramos, Mathilde ter Heijne, Robert Graham, Allen Jones, Zharko Basheski, George Segal and other artists.
"Possible Dimensions" exhibition
On 22 May 2019, Zurab Tsereteli opened an exhibition at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The exhibition was dedicated to Zurab Tsereteli's 85th anniversary. Thirty paintings and statues brought from Moscow, Tbilisi and London were displayed at the exhibition.
Vienna Strauss Festival Orchestra
On 26 November 2018, Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna held a concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The orchestra had also appeared with concerts at the Heydar Aliyev Center back in 2014 and 2016.
"Inner Engineering: Technologies for Wellbeing" lecture by Sadguru
Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadguru, gave a lecture in the Heydar Aliyev Center on 10 November 2018. The subject constitutes a comprehensive system derived from centuries-old yoga studies aiming at profound and sustainable personal transformation.
Fire
On 20 July 2012, after a single performance, a fire started on the roof of the building at about 11:30am. It was quickly put out by firemen, and it was initially reported that the fire only damaged the roof of the building, leaving the interior only slightly damaged, mainly because of the water used by firemen to extinguish the fire. However, the damage was later reported to have had "grave consequences and material damage on a large scale." Officials concluded the fire resulted from negligence in the use of welding equipment in the roof; three Turkish contractors were subsequently charged under Azerbaijan's criminal code. After sixteen months of repairs, it was formally re-opened on 5 November 2013.
Mini Azerbaijan
The Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor features models of 24 historical and architectural buildings. Visitors can also learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited in both Azerbaijani and English.
Among exhibited buildings are those dated to the Middle Ages (Maiden Tower, Momine Khatun Mausoleum), 19th century (Baku Bazaar, Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall, Ismailiyya Palace), USSR era (Government House, Green Theatre), 21st century (Baku Crystal Hall, Flame Towers) as well as the buildings being constructed (Baku Olympic Stadium, State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
International relations
The Heydar Aliyev Center maintains close ties with a number of international agencies, peer structures abroad, museums and exhibition centers. The Center has organized events and exhibitions as a result of joint cooperation with different organization, museums and exhibitions of Austria, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey and so on. At the same time, it has conducted a number of projects in Great Britain, Israel, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Japan and others. Center has become a member of various international organizations.
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) The Association's major goal is to provide support to the agencies involved in the organization of events and exhibitions through resources and information, and the development of the exhibition industry. The Center enjoys the IAEE membership as of 17 September 2013.
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) The ICCA is the world s leading association in the field of organizing and accommodating international events with 90 member states at the moment. The Center became the ICCA member as of 10 October 2013.
The International Association of Convention Centers (AIPC) The Association the Center acceded as of 15 September 2014 unites professional managers of convention centers and exhibitions halls, with more than 50 member states currently represented.
The Association of Event Organizers (AEO) The association unites organizations involved in the management, operation and sales of events. Sharing best practices in security and sustainability matters, as well as technical and financial issues, constitutes the major objective of the AEO, with the Heydar Aliyev Center being a member to as of 15 December 2014.