Balakən (Rayon)

Location of Balakəns in Azerbaijan

Balakən (also Balakan ) is a rayon in northwest Azerbaijan . The capital of the district is the city of Balakon . The rayon is bordered to the north by the the Russian Federation belonging to Dagestan and in the west and southwest Georgia .

geography

The rayon has an area of ​​994 km². The landscape belongs to the southern flank of the Great Caucasus and lies over 300 m above sea level. There are large walnut forests. Parts of the region belong to the Zagatal National Park.

population

In 2009, the rayon had about 89,500 inhabitants. Of these 72.7% Azerbaijanis , 21.4% Avars , 2.9% Georgians , 2.6% Garachi (speakers of an Avar dialect from Dagestan), as well as Ukrainians and Russians . Azerbaijani is spoken mainly , but Avar is also spoken. 95% of the population are Shiite Muslims .

economy

The region is dominated by agriculture. Grain, maize, tobacco and nuts are grown and cattle are raised. There is also a food processing industry, especially dairies.

Attractions

In the region there are buildings from the 12th century, for example in Pəriqala. There are also ancient fortresses and the Hacı Murtuz Tower.

traffic

There is a border crossing at the village of Postbina on the border with Georgia. There is a regular bus connection between the city of Balakən and the Georgian Kabali , as well as to Baku and Zaqatala .

Individual evidence

1. ↑ ^{a b c} Azerbaijan Development Gateway ( Memento of November 14, 2008 in the Internet Archive ) about the Rayon (in the Internet Archive)
2. ↑ Azerbaijani Statistical Authority ( Memento from November 14, 2010 in the Internet Archive ) (in the Internet Archive)
3. ↑ azerb.com about the city and region

Coordinates: 41 ° 45 '  N , 46 ° 24'  E