Pavilion of Azerbaijan at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia
EQUILIBRIUM. PATTERNS OF AZERBAIJAN
Curated by Nigar Gardashkhanova
Arsenale, Campo della Tana, Castello 2127/A – 30122 Venice
10 May – 23 November 2025
Opening hours: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Closed on 25 and 26 December 2025, 1 January 2026
For its inaugural participation in the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, the Republic of Azerbaijan presents the exhibition Equilibrium. Patterns of Azerbaijan. The Pavilion is jointly organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, supported by theEmbassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Italy. It will be open to the public from 10 May to 23 November 2025 at the exhibition venue Castello 2127/A, near theArsenale.
The exhibition, curated by Nigar Gardashkhanovatakes inspiration from the theme Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective, proposed by Carlo Ratti, Curator of the 19th International Architecture Exhibition. It advocates for innovative design practices in response to the growing climate crisis. The main projects to be exhibited by the Pavilion of Azerbaijan follow the notion of “Regenerate. Innovate. Preserve.” Commissioned by Rashad Aslanov, the Pavilion features contributions from theAzerbaijan Development Company (ADEC), Simmetrico Architettura, Adalat Mammadov and Novruz Mammadov.
The curator of the exhibition explains: “Focusing on regenerating a new green lifestyle throughinnovating, while preserving cultural heritage, each work underscores the importance of solidarity and trust among gens (people) as vital drivers for the effectiveness of any form of intelligence.”
Fitting with the approach, the Pavilion highlights a selection of projects under each theme that emphasise how traditional values, combined with modern, sustainable practices, can create a harmonious balance between the past and the future, promoting a greener, more connected world for everyone.
L’Azerbaijan Development Company (ADEC)under the “regenerate”theme, exhibits the Baku White City Project—an ambitious urban redevelopment initiative transforming the heavily industrialized and environmentally degraded “Black City,” once the heart of Azerbaijan’s oil industry, into a modern and sustainable district. As part of the project, ADEC is also showcasing the Baku White City Bridge, a symbolic structure representing connection, transformation, and progress, highlighting the district’s transition from an industrial past to a sustainable future through collective effort.
Simmetrico Architetturaunder the “innovate”theme, is displaying their design for Victory Park, a monumental project in Baku that blends modern architecture with cultural heritage. The park stands as a symbol of national pride, reflecting the strength and solidarity of the Azerbaijani people. Through this project, Simmetrico Architettura demonstrates how innovative design can honour history, foster collective strength, and create sustainable, meaningful spaces for the future, while emphasising the power of unity in the face of hardships.
Adalat Mammadovunder the “preserve”theme, is highlighting his design for Zangilan Mosque, a monumental restoration project that blends traditional Karabakh architectural elements with modern design. The mosque symbolises the fusion of past and present, preserving religious heritage while reflecting the community's resilience and determination. Through this project, he demonstrates how architecture can restore cultural landmarks and strengthen communal bonds while respecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Novruz Mammadov, as an invited artist, exhibits an installation titled Mugham Trio in the courtyard of the exhibition area. This work reflects the rich cultural heritage of Azerbaijan while drawing inspiration from the natural environment, creating a harmonious dialogue between tradition and nature.
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