News

On September 7, 2025, the Fig Festival was held at the “Gala” State Historical-Ethnographic Reserve, organized by the “Icherisheher” State Historical-Architectural Reserve Administration in partnership with the Agricultural Innovation Center of the Ministry of Agriculture and the “EcoSfera” Ecological Social Center Public Union.

The festival, aimed at promoting the natural richness of Absheron and particularly the fig-growing traditions of the Gala area, attracted great interest from local residents, farmers, tourists, and media representatives.

Within the festival program, participants learned about the role of figs in cuisine, in nature, and their social and cultural significance. During culinary shows presented by local chefs, a variety of fig-based dishes were showcased, followed by tasting sessions. In the chef arena, professional chefs from “Shakh Garden”, “Qəbələ”, “La Quzu”, “Pendir Çörək”, and “Çay bağı 145” restaurants located in Icherisheher demonstrated the preparation of fig-based dishes and provided practical tips for cooking enthusiasts. These activities created a valuable experience for both professionals and amateurs.

A special discussion panel dedicated to women's health was also organized during the event. Bringing together traditional medicine and modern medical approaches, the session allowed participants to exchange views with experts.

For children, a special program titled “Grandmother’s Tales” was held, where ancient Absheron folk stories were narrated, introducing young visitors to the region’s rich folklore and cultural heritage. The “Tree of Wisdom” and the meditation corner became some of the most notable areas of the festival.

Scientific research institutes in the field of agriculture — including the Institutes of Fruit Growing and Tea Growing, Viticulture and Winemaking, Crop Production, Veterinary Medicine, Animal Husbandry, and Plant Protection — gave presentations about their fields of activity. Participants received information on innovative approaches in fruit growing, new technologies in viticulture and winemaking, ecologically sustainable farming methods, veterinary and livestock health services, and advanced solutions in plant protection.

Additionally, nurseries and plant protection companies displayed their products and services.

The Agricultural Services Agency also took part in the event, providing information to farmers about services such as plant health, seed production, laboratory analyses, soil and water testing, as well as veterinary and phytosanitary services.

At the end of the festival, fig saplings were planted in the territory of the Gala Reserve, demonstrating the event’s commitment to sustainability and contributions to nature. Afterwards, participants were offered a large feast featuring delicious fig-based dishes.