The Baku 2015 Flame has visited the city of Shamakhi ©Baku 2015

Baku 2015's European Games Flame has visited the city of Shamakhi for another Festival of Fire, continuing its epic journey here across the host nation.

The celebrations began at the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory, known for specifiying the exact time of Azerbaijani holidays such as Novrus, the traditional new year.

Based in Pirgulu, a state reserve 1,500 metres above sea level, it provided a breathtaking mountaineous backdrop for the Torch convoy.

Elvin Eynalov, the first of 10 Torchbearers, started the 2.81 kilometres relay run, in front of the city arch, carrying the Flame a short distance before passing it on to Rustam Musayev.

Bahlul Aliosman was the next to take on the mantle followed by Jeyhun Razimi, Ahmad Umatov, Ilkin Azizov, Sabina Suleymanova, Elshan Amirov and Islam Guliyev.

The final Torchbearer, Farid Samadzade carried the Flame in front of the Khagani Shirvani memorial complex and into the Heydar Aliyev Park.

A specially constructed stage in the middle of the Park was the focal point for the festivities that ensued.

Here the Flame was transferred to a commemorative lamp gifted to the region that will remain on display in the Park until the cauldron is extinguished, coinciding with the European Games’ Closing Ceremony on June 28. 

Official European Games mascots Jeyran and Nar joined the crowd as they were treated to entertainment and music from local artists as well as the signature fire show.

Doves and balloons symbolising peace were then released into the night to end the celebrations.

A total of 10 Torchbearers took part in proceedings
A total of 10 Torchbearers took part in proceedings ©Baku 2015

Shamakhi is situated in the southeast laps of the Caucasus mountain range and was the ancient capital city of Azerbaijan, until it lost this status to Baku following a devastating earthquake in 1191.

The region now concentrates on winemaking and cattle farming as well as engineering and electrical industries.

The Flame is due to continue its journey to Sumgayit and Khizi today for smaller welcome ceremonies.

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

For further information on the journey, click here. 


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