In Azerbaijan, the pomegranate is a symbol of wealth, abundance, and fertility. It is also known as the king of fruits, with its crown shape believed to have inspired the crowns of monarchs. In Azerbaijan, poems and songs are composed about the pomegranate, which is often featured in cultural traditions, holidays, and folk art. It is also depicted in various artworks, textiles, and souvenirs.
Did you know that the pomegranate is one of the oldest fruits known to humanity? It is believed that the pomegranate tree originated in Persia. In Zoroastrianism, pomegranates were considered a sign of fertility due to their numerous seeds. The presence of pomegranates at the night festival of Yalda symbolizes the blessing of new life. Traditionally, Zoroastrians gift pomegranates to their daughters and sons upon their marriage, praying for fertility. The ethnic Lur community, which lived in Iran around 2000 BC, produced remarkable crafts known today as Luristani bronzes, some of which can be identified by the pomegranate tree. Additionally, pomegranates can be found on several bas-reliefs at Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid kings. Furthermore, pomegranates are depicted in some Sasanian reliefs as symbols of fertility and harvest. The pomegranate embodies immortality, diversity in unity, eternal fertility, fruitfulness, and abundance. In Islam, the pomegranate symbolizes moral purity and is considered a fruit that will grow in paradise.
There is an interesting wedding tradition in Azerbaijan related to the pomegranate. In some regions, pomegranates are used during weddings. The groom meets the bride at the threshold of her new home and throws her a pomegranate or an apple. If the bride catches the fruit, she is responsible for the family; if she does not, the husband takes the initiative.
The pomegranate is also a powerful natural antioxidant. This fruit contains a high amount of antioxidants and acids that reduce inflammation. For this reason, pomegranates have significant anti-tumor effects, especially concerning breast cancer. Pomegranates also prevent the destruction of cardiovascular cells, help avoid diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, and contribute to lowering cholesterol levels. To take advantage of all the beneficial properties of pomegranates, one should consume a quarter of the fruit or 30 grams of pomegranate juice daily. The juice should be diluted with water or consumed in a tube, and it’s essential to rinse the mouth afterward.
How does the pomegranate adorn Azerbaijani cuisine? In the national diet of Azerbaijan, pomegranate seeds are used both raw and as a seasoning for various dishes. A fish sauce called narsharab is made from pomegranate juice. To prepare narsharab, the peel and inner membranes of the pomegranate are typically removed, and the remaining seeds are pressed for juice. The juice is then reduced to 20% of its original volume, and sugar, coriander, basil, cinnamon, bay leaf, and sometimes black or red pepper are added. This natural source of pomegranate juice stabilizes hemoglobin levels in the blood, has hematopoietic properties, and normalizes blood pressure. Azerbaijani pomegranate wine is a unique alcoholic drink made from pomegranates. It is popular among locals and tourists for its rich color and unique flavor. Besides being delicious, pomegranate wine is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants and is considered beneficial for health. It can be consumed both on its own and paired with various dishes, including meat and meat appetizers.
For centuries, pomegranates have been a source of income for the local population. And Goychay is not only home to the tastiest pomegranates but is also the only place in the world where 67 varieties are grown. The pomegranate festival in Azerbaijan is usually celebrated to mark the harvest of this fruit. The festival features various fairs, exhibitions, and events related to pomegranates. Guests can sample various pomegranate-based products, enjoy music and dance, and learn more about the cultural traditions associated with this fruit in Azerbaijani culture. Since 2006, the city of Goychay has celebrated the pomegranate festival annually and on a grand scale, coinciding with the end of the pomegranate harvest. The event lasts about two weeks, typically from October 26 to November 7. This festival occurs during the pomegranate harvest season, usually from late October to early November.
Key highlights of the festival include:
Exhibitions and fairs: Gardeners showcase different varieties of pomegranates, such as "Veles," "Shirin," "Gyuleysha," and "Shikhbaba." Pomegranate products: juices, jams, sauces, and even medicinal concoctions.
Competitions and entertainment: A contest for the largest pomegranate, featuring fruits weighing over 1.5 kilograms. Musical shows, folk dances, sports events, and performances by folk groups.
Cultural significance: In 2020, UNESCO included this festival in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The pomegranate is regarded as the king of fruits in Azerbaijan and is an essential part of local culture and economy.
Pomegranate Museum: Can you imagine that in Goychay, there is the only pomegranate museum in the world, where you can learn more about its history and significance? Yes, there is!
Interestingly, the city also prepares for the celebrations. Renovations are underway, and parks, gardens, and streets are being decorated.
The festivities begin with laying a wreath at the monument to the national leader in the Heydar Aliyev Park, where local officials and guests congratulate the residents on the pomegranate festival and discuss the economic, social, cultural, and moral significance of the event. Then, guests visit the museum and the Heydar Aliyev Health Center.
