Azerbaijan stands at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where ancient traditions meet modern life. The country holds a deep history, shaped by trade, empire, and art. The World Heritage Sites in Azerbaijan reveal this history, from medieval palaces to ancient rock carvings.
Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower
In the heart of Baku, the Walled City stands as a reminder of Azerbaijan’s medieval past. Surrounded by stone walls, this part of the city has been a center of power and trade for centuries. Narrow streets lead to historical buildings, each one holding traces of past civilizations.
The Shirvanshah’s Palace is one of the most important landmarks within the old city. Built in the 15th century, it served as the residence of the Shirvanshah dynasty. The palace complex includes a mosque, mausoleum, and bathhouse, reflecting the architectural style of the time. The Maiden Tower, standing tall within the walled city, remains a mystery. Historians debate its original purpose, with theories ranging from a watchtower to a temple. Its spiral staircase leads to the top, where visitors can see a panoramic view of Baku and the Caspian Sea.
Gobustan Rock Art
The Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape holds over 6,000 petroglyphs, some dating back 40,000 years. These carvings depict scenes of hunting, dancing, and rituals, giving insight into early human life. The site also contains ancient caves and burial sites, showing that people lived here for thousands of years. Besides its rock carvings, Gobustan is also known for mud volcanoes. Azerbaijan has one of the highest concentrations of these natural formations, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace
Sheki, located in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus, has been a center of silk production and trade for centuries. The Historic Centre of Sheki features traditional houses, mosques, and caravanserais, reflecting the city’s importance along the Silk Road. The Khan’s Palace is the highlight of Sheki’s historic district. Built in the 18th century, it was the summer residence of the Sheki Khans. The palace is famous for its stained-glass windows, known as shebeke, which were created without using nails or glue. The detailed frescoes inside the palace tell stories of battles, traditions, and everyday life.
Hyrcanian Forests
Stretching across Azerbaijan and Iran, the Hyrcanian Forests are one of the world’s oldest ecosystems. These forests have existed for over 25 million years, surviving through climate changes that wiped out other ancient woodlands. The forests are home to rare species, including the Persian leopard, Caucasian lynx, and endangered bird species. Scientists continue to study this region, as it holds plant and animal life that cannot be found anywhere else.
Cultural Landscape of Khinalig People and “Köç Yolu” Transhumance Route
In the highlands of Azerbaijan, the village of Khinalig has stood for over 5,000 years. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The people of Khinalig have their own language and traditions, separate from the rest of Azerbaijan. The Köç Yolu Transhumance Route follows the seasonal migration of shepherds and livestock between mountain pastures and lowland fields. This practice has been passed down through generations, preserving a way of life that connects people to the land.
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