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Palace of the Shirvanshahs: A Medieval Marvel

Explore the medieval grandeur of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Baku's Old City, showcasing Azerbaijan's rich history.

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The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Baku's Old City, stands as a testament to Azerbaijan's rich history and architectural prowess. Built in the 15th century, this palace complex was once the royal residence of the Shirvanshah dynasty and showcases the Shirvan-Absheron architectural style.

A brief summary to Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven stone surfaces within the palace complex.
  • Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience exploring the palace.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and architecture of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
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Getting There

  • Metro

    The most convenient way to reach the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is via the Baku Metro. Take the Green Line to Icherisheher station. Upon exiting the metro station, walk north. The walk to the palace is approximately 5 minutes, and the route is well-signposted. A single metro fare is 0.30 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baku and offer a direct route to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Simply provide the driver with the address or the name of the palace, and they will take you directly to the entrance. From the city center, a taxi ride should cost approximately 3-5 AZN, depending on traffic and the distance traveled.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Old City (Icherisheher), the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs within the Old City walls, directing you towards the palace. The palace is located on a hill, so expect a slight incline as you approach. Walking allows you to explore the charming streets and historical landmarks of the Old City along the way.

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Discover more about Palace of the Shirvanshahs

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, located in Baku's historic Inner City (Icherisheher), is a captivating journey into Azerbaijan's medieval past. Constructed in the 15th century, after Shirvanshah Ibrahim I moved the capital to Baku, the palace served as the seat of the Shirvanshah dynasty. The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as one of the pearls of Azerbaijani architecture. The palace complex isn't just one building, but a collection of structures built over time. These include the main palace building, the Divanhane (a pavilion for state ceremonies), the Shah's mosque with its towering minaret, a mausoleum housing the remains of the Shirvanshah family, and remnants of a bathhouse. The architecture showcases intricate stone carvings, graceful archways, and domes, reflecting the cultural and artistic achievements of the Shirvan-Absheron architectural style. Inside the main palace, which originally had 52 rooms, visitors can explore the living quarters of the Shah and his family, as well as the areas for servants. The Divanhane features an octagonal hall adorned with delicate carvings and inscriptions. The mausoleum, built for the family of Halilullah I, contains several graves, including those of the Shah and his children. The Palace Mosque includes separate prayer halls for men and women and a minaret offering panoramic views. While the palace has suffered damage over the centuries from conflicts and invasions, restoration efforts have preserved its historical and cultural value. Today, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs functions as a museum, displaying artifacts from the Shirvan era and offering insights into the dynasty's history and the daily life of its inhabitants.

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