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Bayat Castle: Cradle of the Karabakh Khanate

Discover Bayat Castle: the first capital of the Karabakh Khanate, a testament to Azerbaijan's rich history and strategic importance in the 18th century.

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Explore Bayat Castle, the first capital of the Karabakh Khanate, founded in 1748 by Panah Ali Khan. Though only partially surviving, this historic site offers a glimpse into the origins of a powerful Azerbaijani dynasty and the strategic thinking behind its initial establishment.

A brief summary to Bayat qalası

  • 72C5+G7M, Gaynag, AZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the ruins involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the fortress.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the area can be exposed and windy.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the center of Agcabedi, a taxi or ride-sharing service is the most convenient way to reach Bayat Castle. The journey is approximately 20-30 minutes. Confirm the fare before starting your trip; expect to pay around 5-8 AZN.

  • Public Transport

    From Agcabedi, take a local bus or 'daha' (shared minibus) towards Gaynag village. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From Gaynag, Bayat Castle is about 2 km away; you can walk or hire a local taxi for the final leg. The bus fare is around 0.5-1 AZN. A taxi from Gaynag to the fortress should cost around 2-3 AZN.

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Discover more about Bayat qalası

Bayat Castle, located in the Kebirli village of the Tartar District, stands as a significant historical monument in Azerbaijan. Built in 1748 by Panah Ali Khan Javanshir, it served as the first capital of the Karabakh Khanate. The castle is named after the Turkic Bayat clan. Initially constructed for defense, the castle featured walls and trenches, along with essential structures like a market, bathhouse, and mosque. The construction utilized hard-burned bricks. After its completion, Panah Ali Khan moved his court to Bayat Castle. However, its location proved strategically unfavorable, leading to the capital's relocation to Shahbulag Castle in 1752 and later to Shusha. Today, Bayat Castle remains a valuable cultural site, offering visitors a chance to explore the early foundations of the Karabakh Khanate. While partially ruined, it stands as a testament to Panah Ali Khan's ambitions and the region's rich history.

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