Shaki hosted Slow Food’s first Terra Madre

The first edition of Terra Madre Shaki, themed “A Taste of Tradition,” took place on October 11, 2025, at the Yukhari Bash National Historical-Architectural Reserve. The event was organized by the State Tourism Agency in collaboration with Azerbaijan Tourism Board, Azerbaijan National Culinary Center, Executive Power of Shaki city and Slow Food.

During his opening speech at the festival, Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency, emphasized that “Terra Madre in Shaki represents an important milestone after years of research, partnerships, and concrete action to protect our culinary heritage and link it closely with sustainable tourism development.” 

“Hosting the first edition of the event here in Shaki, an important Silk Road trading center and a UNESCO World Heritage site, shows how tourism can be a powerful tool for enhancing sustainable local food systems. The area is already part of our Slow Food Travel program, which creates interactive culinary experiences that support rural communities and promote heritage,” says Edward Mukiibi, Slow Food President. “We hope this marks the beginning of a long collaboration to strengthen local producer networks, protect biodiversity, and safeguard ecosystems.”

Terra Madre Shaki introduced the global Slow Food movement to Azerbaijan for the first time, aimed to promote a sustainable food system, local culinary traditions, and cultural heritage by supporting rural communities.

The festival featured a forum of experts on agricultural policy and gastronomy, as well as roundtable discussions on biodiversity and winemaking with the participation of government representatives and industry professionals. Nearly 30 producers, herders, and winemakers took part in the festival, along with tastings and masterclasses. Visitors had the chance to explore products presented across 13 stands in 26 categories.