Surgut: Our northern neighbor, the Siberian region of Russia, is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its abundant oil and gas reserves. The discovery of oil deposits here 60 years ago catalyzed the development of the region and significantly contributed to Russia’s status as an energy powerhouse. The Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug still honors the man behind this transformation, Azerbaijani geologist Farman Salmanov, who first discovered oil in the area.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Farman Salmanov’s legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of Surgut. Since 2019, the city’s airport has borne his name, a decision made following a public vote as part of the “Great Names of Russia” initiative. Salmanov’s nomination garnered nearly 60 percent of the votes, reflecting his profound impact on the region.
Surgut, which was once a remote settlement, experienced a dramatic transformation following Salmanov’s discovery in the 1960s. His efforts turned the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug into a t
hriving hub of socio-economic activity, leading to the establishment of numerous sites honoring his contributions, including an airport, a street, and a gymnasium.
Azad Maharramov, from the Farman Salmanov house-museum, highlights that Salmanov led a geological expedition that not only explored oil fields but also contributed to the construction developments in Surgut. This expedition played a pivotal role in transforming the area from a small village into a bustling city.
Salmanov’s house museum, located in what used to be a settlement of only 5,000 people, preserves the historical essence of the 1960s. The museum displays equipment from the era of Siberian oil exploration and features personal artifacts and photographs of Salmanov, providing a glimpse into the life of the man who discovered Siberian oil.
In Khanty-Mansiysk, Salmanov’s legacy is further preserved through samples of mine rock he collected during his explorations. His declaration of success in finding oil at a depth of 2,180 meters remains
a legendary moment in the history of Soviet geology, underscoring his role as the Azerbaijani who brought warmth to Siberia’s coldest regions.