Mammadnuru Azizov, the first Torchbearer, began the relay segment of the day’s festivities before passing the flame to Agshin Ibrahimov. 

Zamina Rasulova, Ravan Hamzazade, Seymur Gasimzade, Bakir Khalilov, Vugar Isgandarov, Intigam Amrahov and Sadagat Mammadzade continued through Mirza Fatali Akhundzade Avenue and 20 January Street on to Heydar Aliyev Avenue.

The final Torchbearer, Dashgin Mikayilov, completed the 2.2 kilometres route as he brought the Torch to the stage for the special Lighting Ceremony.

Local residents were later treated to a free evening event which included a spectacular 15-minute fire show, specially created for the Festival of Fire celebrations.

Official Baku 2015 mascots Jeyran and Nar mingled with spectators and watched as doves and balloons, symbols of peace, were released into the sky.

Sheki, set in the forested Caucasus mountains, is known for its silk and weaving industries.

The Albanian Church of Kish, founded by the first century apostle Eliseus, is said to be the oldest Christian church in the southern Caucasus, and provided the backdrop to the first photoshoot of the day.

Next was the Palace of Sheki Khans, unique in that the six-bedroom, four-corridor masterpiece was built without the use of nails or glue.

Tomorrow, the Flame is due to continue its journey to Ismayilli for a smaller welcome ceremony before heading to Gabala for another Festival of Fire.

To see highlights of this week’s journey, click here. 

For further information on the journey, click here.


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