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Icherisheher: Baku's Ancient Walled City

Explore Icherisheher, Baku's ancient walled city: a UNESCO site with iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture. A journey through time awaits!

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Icherisheher, the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing a blend of history, culture, and architecture. Enclosed by fortified walls, this ancient city features iconic landmarks like the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs' Palace, offering a glimpse into Baku's rich past.

A brief summary to İçərişəhər Dövlət Tarix-Memarlıq Qoruğu İdarəsi

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets.
  • Carry cash, as many smaller shops and cafes prefer it.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Check entrance fees for attractions like the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs' Palace in advance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Icherisheher is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many points in downtown Baku. From Fountain Square, head east towards the iconic fortress walls. Enter through one of the main gates, such as the Gosha Gala Gapisi (Double Gate). Once inside, explore the maze of streets on foot. Note that the area is pedestrian-friendly but can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

  • Public Transport

    The Baku Metro is a convenient way to reach Icherisheher. Take the Red Line to Icherisheher Station. As you exit the station, you'll find yourself right at the edge of the Old City. From there, it's a short walk through the gates into the heart of Icherisheher. A single metro fare costs 0.50 AZN and requires a BakiKart, which can be purchased at the station for 2 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baku and offer a direct way to reach Icherisheher. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in the city. Simply provide "Icherisheher" as your destination. Be aware of potential traffic delays, especially during rush hour. A short taxi ride from the city center to Icherisheher typically costs between 3 AZN to 7 AZN, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about İçərişəhər Dövlət Tarix-Memarlıq Qoruğu İdarəsi

Icherisheher, also known as the Old City or Inner City, is Baku's historic core, holding a significant place in Azerbaijan's cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the Bronze Age, with its development taking off in the 12th century. The area is surrounded by defensive walls, some of which date back to the 12th century. Within Icherisheher's walls lie a wealth of historical and architectural treasures. The Maiden Tower, an iconic symbol of Baku, stands as one of the city's most ancient monuments, with some evidence suggesting its construction as early as the 7th-6th centuries BC. The Shirvanshahs' Palace, a 15th-century complex, represents a pinnacle of Azerbaijani architecture. Exploring Icherisheher means stepping back in time. The narrow, winding streets and limestone buildings create a maze-like ambiance, while revealing a blend of Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman, and Russian influences. Visitors can discover ancient mosques, bathhouses, caravanserais, and museums, including the Miniature Book Museum. Today, Icherisheher remains a vibrant, living city, with residential areas, shops, restaurants and hotels. The Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Administration oversees the preservation and promotion of this unique historical ensemble. As a must-see destination in Baku, Icherisheher offers an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and modern life.

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