History was made as the flame for the first-ever European Games was kindled from the rays of the sun to begin its journey around Azerbaijan today.
The temple of Ateshgah in Baku - sacred to Zoroastrian fire worshippers for centuries - was the site for the ceremony, which was attended by over 150 dignitaries.
The torch relay will travel around the country for the next 48 days before arriving at the opening ceremony of the inaugural Games, where Team GB will be represented by 153 athletes in 13 sports.
“The Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect are perfectly expressed through the torch relay," said Patrick Hickey, President of the European Olympic Committees.
"By passing the flame from one to another in a collaborative gesture, torchbearers spread a message of peace, friendship and celebration through sport."
© Sportsbeat 2015