President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attend the inauguration of restored “Swans” fountain complex in the Baku Boulevard

Inauguration of the restored fountain complex “Swans”, one of the historical symbols of the Baku Boulevard, took place, August 28.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva attended the inauguration of the complex.

The fountain “Swans” in the Baku Boulevard was built in 1960s. During 1960-1980s, large-scale construction works were carried out in Azerbaijan at the initiative and under leadership of Heydar Aliyev that included construction of architectural complexes and buildings in Baku, changing the image of the city. The Baku seaside park too turned into a beautiful place, drawing peoples’ attention. Constructed at the Azneft Square, the fountain “Swans” too was recognized as one of the beloved places of Baku residents and tourists. Created by inspiration from great poet Nizami Ganjavi’s “Seven Beauties” poem and Gara Garayev’s same-name ballet, comprised of seven swan statues, the fountain was very much liked by residents and became a legendary place in the capital.

Composition of the fountain “Swans” has been developed several times. Comprised of 7 swans and a pool early in 1960s, the composition was added new features in 1980s. Early in 1990s, due to the chaos and desolation in the country, this ensemble became devastated, as a number of other public objects. While reconstructing the seaside boulevard in 2007, a marble fountain complex was created in its place. However, there had always been nostalgia for the fountain, which had been famous with historical swans.

Following Mehriban Aliyeva’s initiative, this historical ensemble was restored and its historical image was returned. Visited and loved not only by the capital residents, but also numerous tourists coming to our country, this place added good mood to the beauty of Baku. Restoration of this ensemble to its historical image made the world-renowned Baku Boulevard more beautiful.

Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov informed President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva of the works carried out here.

In the framework of the project implemented with support from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, a pool has been constructed on the territory, 16 fountain poles built, and 7 swan statues made by sculptor Murad Sujaddinov on natural stones. Following the instruction by President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva, works on the project based on the idea of preserving historical traditions were carried out on a high level. One of the important features of the ensemble is that, as in 1960s, each of the swans has been made in different size, picturing a different move. Special attention has been shown to illumination while building the fountains. Now, along with being a new place of rest for both local residents and tourists, this place will revive old memories experienced in this part of the boulevard.

The President and the First Lady viewed also the territory of small Venice village in the seaside boulevard. New floor cover has been laid here, additional trees planted, and the surrounding area was renovated.