Three hundred million rubles formed the basis of the industrial fortune amassed by Musa Naghiyev, an Azerbaijani oil magnate who rose from humble beginnings as a cargo carrier. Operating within the late 19th and early 20th-century petroleum sector, he transformed his capital into an extensive real estate portfolio consisting of more than 200 buildings throughout the city of Baku.
Rise in the Petroleum Industry
Born in 1849 in Bilajari, Naghiyev began his working life as a simple cargo carrier, known locally as a hambal. Through business acumen, he ascended the ranks of the oil industry to become one of the wealthiest figures in the region, ranking alongside the Nobel brothers. His professional efforts were recognized with the Order of Saint Stanislaus, 3rd class.
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Beyond his petroleum assets, Naghiyev invested heavily in property to secure steady income streams. He eventually became the largest rental property owner in Baku. Among his notable constructions was a palace modeled on the Doge's Palace in Venice, which he donated to the Muslim Charity Society; the structure now serves as the Presidium of the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan. Another significant contribution was the city’s largest hospital, constructed in 1912, designed in the shape of a Cyrillic 'N' to represent his name.
Philanthropy and Religious Life
Naghiyev was an adherent of the Baháʼí Faith and served on the Spiritual Assembly of the Baháʼís of Baku. His philanthropic legacy included acting as the primary sponsor and trustee of the Real College, a technical institution whose building now houses the Azerbaijan State Economic University. He also resided in a distinctive two-floor building erected in 1887, known for a unique stone lantern called 'Seng fanar' that illuminated the street with colored glass at night.
Final Years
Holding citizenship in both the Russian Empire and the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic during his lifetime, Naghiyev remained active in the Baku Muslim Charitable Society. He died of a heart attack on 4 March 1919 in Baku and was buried at the Bilajari cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1849, Bilajari
- Died: 4 March 1919, Baku
- Primary Occupation: Industrialist
- Key Recognition: Order of Saint Stanislaus, 3rd class
- Religion: Baháʼí Faith
- Wealth Estimate: 300 million rubles
- Property Holdings: Over 200 buildings
- Burial Site: Bilajari cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the scale of Naghiyev's property ownership?
He owned more than 200 buildings in Baku, making him the city's largest rental property owner.
Did Naghiyev engage in charitable work?
Yes, he donated a palace to the Muslim Charity Society and funded the city's largest hospital, completed in 1912.
Achievements
- Order of Saint Stanislaus, 3rd class
