Azerbaijan - the nation and former Soviet Republic - has a lot of history that remains about the dark days. During that time,  it was delimited by the Caspian Sea which spans Asia and Europe. I like how they say it “We are Asians when we want to, we are European when we want to.” Its capital is Baku, where the games were held. Azerbaijan is famous for its medieval walled city,  within which lies the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a royal retreat dating to the 15th century which is called the OLD CITY, and the centuries-old stone Maiden Tower, which dominates the city skyline. A breathtakingly beautiful country with warm and friendly people who take life easy and enjoy food always. 

 

The Games 
 

The ruling regime has invested $6.5bn in the Baku games, hoping to “showcase Azerbaijan as a vibrant and modern European nation of great achievement”. The 2015 European Games, AKA Baku 2015 was an international multi-sport event for athletes representing the National Olympic Committees of Europe. It took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 12 to 28 June 2015, and featured almost 6,000 athletes from 50 countries competing in 20 sports, such as Aquatics, Archery, Beach soccer, Boxing, Volleyball, and

Wrestling.. etc.

 

The Opening 
 

I was there at the opening held on Friday June 12 at the  Baku Olympic Stadium which is a 68,700-seat stadium, designed to meet the highest international standards. Unfortunately, I had to return to Sri Lanka before the closing ceremony which was held on 28 June, but seeing Lady Gaga perform just a few feet away from you is a great thing. It was big and bold, the magic of the Baku 2015 Opening Ceremony, along with Gaga singing “Imagine”. The event was watched live all around the world.
 

I had the best time in a country that dates back many centuries, with beautiful tradition and a lifestyle that’s so easy to fall in love with. Everyone in Baku know about Sri Lanka and love the tea that comes from our nation. This clean city is a place you must vist. Please do take the time to fly down there to see Azerbaijan.