Khan Mosque and Cemetery: A Glimpse into Sheki's Khanate Past

The Khan Mosque and Cemetery is a notable historical site in Sheki, Azerbaijan, offering a window into the region's Khanate past. Constructed in the 18th century (circa 1769-70) by Sheki Khan Mohammed Huseyn Khan Mushtag, the complex originally functioned as the First Friday Mosque. The mosque's construction utilized local materials such as river stones, baked bricks, and wood from plane, pistachio, and walnut trees. Its architecture includes a gallery and is enhanced by towering plane trees.In 1853, a fire caused significant damage, but local residents restored the mosque. The complex also includes the Khan Cemetery, where Sheki Khans and their family members were buried, their tombstones adorned with intricate carvings. A two-story museum on the grounds displays artifacts and cultural items from the Sheki Khanate period. Restoration work was completed in 2022, and the complex is now open to the public for sightseeing and worship.The mosque is located within the Yukhari Bash National Historical-Architectural Reserve, a short walk from the Upper Caravanserai. Visitors can explore the mosque's prayer hall with its antique carpets and relics from a previous church and burial ground. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make the Khan Mosque and Cemetery a must-visit destination in Sheki.