Bathing in oil since the 12th century

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Facts Naftalan

Azerbaijan  Country:
8700  Population:
12th century  Founded:
Azeri  Languages:
Tourism  Economy:
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Naftalan

Region: Naftalan Rayon

Naftalan is a small town in western Azerbaijan. It is located almost 50km southeast of the city of Ganja. Naftalan and its surroundings are known for their large oil deposits. This can also be recognized by the name.

«Naphta» comes from Greek and means «oil», «alan» comes from the Azerbaijani word «take». Oil deposits are nothing unusual in Azerbaijan, which is rich in raw materials. But the fact that the people of Naftalan have been bathing in oil since the 12th century and still do, is rather surprising.

Where people bathe in oil

It's no joke: In Naftalan you don't bathe in thermal water but in oil. There are several such baths in the town, as well as a healing center. The guests expect the medical effect of the oil to cure skin diseases, back pain, arthritis, psoriasis and dozens of other health problems. Naftalan oil - it is not flammable - is also said to have a disinfecting, antibiotic and metabolically stimulating effect.

However, there are also researchers who warn of an increased risk of cancer due to certain ingredients.

Oil tourism since the 12th century

This is of little concern to the fans of the oil baths. Since the 12th century, people have come to Naftalan because they expect the oil to cure them. Naftalan was a tourist destination before this term even existed. The people came from the neighboring countries Turkey, Russia and Persia, but also from Afghanistan and Europe. Even Marco Polo wrote about the baths.

Private tour to Naftalan

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Naftalan
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How to get to Naftalan

Naftalan by car

By car

Naftalan is situated in the mid-west of Azerbaijan. From Ganja the journey to Naftalan takes 1 hour, from Baku 4 hours.

Naftalan by minibus

By minibus

From Ganja which is located 50 km west of Naftalan, there are regular marshrutka connections.

Naftalan by plane

By plane

From the Ganja International Airport, you can reach Naftalan within 1h 15min.

Naftalan by train

By train

From Baku, there are train connections to Mingecevir and Ganja. From there you can take a taxi or a minibus to Naftalan.

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Guided tours to Naftalan

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Impressions from Naftalan

Naftalan