Baku

Baku - Palace of the Shirvanshahs

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Explore the Majestic Palace of the Shirvanshahs in Baku

Delving into Centuries Past Situated in the enchanting heart of Baku's historic Old City, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a beacon of Azerbaijan's illustrious past. This regal edifice, established between the 13th and 16th centuries, served as the royal residence for the esteemed Shirvanshah dynasty, the sovereigns of the Shirvan realm.

A Showcase of Architectural Mastery Carved from the signature Absheron limestone, this palace is a testament to the grandeur of medieval Azerbaijani design. The complex boasts features like the Divan Khan courtyard, a sacred tomb, a mosque, traditional bathhouses, and a mausoleum. The palace's intricate stonework and its expansive 52-room mansion, adorned with spiraling staircases, highlight the era's exceptional artisanship.

Tales Etched in Stone The palace's walls have silently observed the rise and fall of great empires, from the Safavids to the Ottoman Turks and the Russians. Within its confines lies the Syd-kuyusi, or the 'Milk Well', a site enveloped in legends and believed to possess miraculous properties.

Treasures from Yesteryears Beyond its structural beauty, the palace has unveiled a myriad of relics from archaeological digs. These findings, ranging from everyday items, coins, ornate weapons, musical instruments to the renowned Shamakhi carpets, offer a vivid snapshot of life during the reign of the Shirvanshahs.

A World Heritage Gem In acknowledgment of its profound historical and cultural value, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, accompanied by Baku's Old City and the iconic Maiden Tower, earned the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, underscoring its global significance.