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Lankaran Fortress: Echoes of Empires Past

Explore the remnants of Lankaran Fortress, an 18th-century monument with Persian, Russian, and Azerbaijani architectural influences.

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The Lankaran Fortress, dating back to the 18th century, stands as a historical monument in Lankaran, Azerbaijan. Once a formidable defensive structure within the Talysh Khanate, today, only remnants remain, whispering tales of battles and empires.

A brief summary to Lankaran fortress

  • QV24+8HM, Lankaran, AZ

Local tips

  • Explore the remaining towers to imagine the fortress in its prime and learn about the battles fought within its walls.
  • Visit the mosques that were built on the sites of the old bazaars to experience the religious heritage of the area.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Hirkan National Park for a blend of history and natural beauty.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Lankaran, the fortress is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the Lankaran River; the fortress ruins are located on the left bank. The walk is relatively short and allows you to explore the city center along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) frequently operate within Lankaran. Check for routes heading towards the river or ask for the 'Gala' (Fortress) direction. Bus fares are typically very low, around 0.30-0.50 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Lankaran. Simply hail one from the street or use a ride-hailing app. Provide the landmark or address, 'Lankaran Fortress near the river'. A short taxi ride within the city should cost approximately 3.5 AZN for a 5km ride.

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Discover more about Lankaran fortress

Lankaran Fortress, located in the city of Lankaran, Azerbaijan, is a historical monument that dates back to the 18th century. Constructed between 1726 and 1727, the fortress was one of the main defensive structures of the Talysh Khanate. It served as a strategic military base, designed to protect the region from invasions and control access to the Caspian Sea. Eyewitness accounts describe the fortress as an imposing structure with towering stone walls and battlements, armed with artillery. Deep trenches surrounded the fortress, which could be filled with water for added defense. The fortress played a crucial role during the First Russo-Persian War, housing around 4,000 Iranian soldiers. In 1813, Russian forces captured the fortress, marking a turning point in the region's history. Over time, the fortress underwent several renovations, blending Persian, Russian, and Caucasian architectural influences. Today, only two towers remain, serving as a reminder of its storied past. Within the fortress walls lies an area known as “Gala” to the locals. The site also historically housed two bazaars, the Large Bazaar and the Small Bazaar, with mosques constructed in each at the beginning of the 20th century. The Lankaran Fortress stands as a symbol of resilience and a vital part of the region's history.

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