Astara is translated from Iranian tongues as a “star”. It is also the name of a small town divided into two parts with the stable state border between Azerbaijan and Iran. Both parts are inhabited by the Talesh people, descendants of the ancient Midians. Both, the Azerbaijani and Iranian inhabitants, live thanks to the agriculture and border trading. I went to this town with only one purpose to go across the border. In both sides I was precipitated by greedy currency traders and taxmen. In both sides I was regaled by simple people with fresh water, pomegranates, fried Caspian sturgeon and pickled garlic. In Azerbaijani side they also offered local homemade whisky (in Iran alcohol is prohibited). In short, Astara of Azerbaijan and Astara of Iran are very similar. The only problem is that people of one side do not like people of the other one. Their hostility is steady and mutual. Ironically, I recall about all of them with great pleasure.

great !!! ;-) sistatitoune · 2008-08-15: 15:32

Tagged: astara azerbaijan iran астара аербайджан фото иран