Heydar Aliyev Center

Designed by the architect Zaha Hadid and opened in 2012, the Heydar Aliyev Center is a single sweep of white that rises from the ground, folds over itself and drops away again. It is one of the most photographed buildings in the Caucasus.

Inside are exhibition halls and an auditorium, with displays on Azerbaijan’s history and culture alongside changing exhibitions of art and design. Outside, the sloping lawns, pools and sculptures make a good setting for family photographs, and children enjoy running along the gently curving paths.

Allow an hour or two, and check opening days before you go. Late-afternoon light shows off the curves best, and the building is lit up after dark. It is a short taxi ride from the Old City, so it fits easily into a day of sightseeing in Baku.