Şirvan, Azerbaijan

Capital City

With a population of just 77,060, Şirvan is a small and remote outpost in Azerbaijan. The city was founded in the 19th century as a Russian village, and the legacy of its origins is evident in the lingering bureaucracy that can be a persistent headache for residents. Summers are brutally hot, with temperatures regularly climbing above 44°C, while winters are relatively mild but not without their challenges. Despite its modest size, Şirvan serves as the oil center of the surrounding region, with the energy industry accounting for nearly 90% of the local economy. This isolated city is best suited for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle in the South Caucasus, though the harsh climate and Soviet-era red tape may prove daunting for some.