Shaki: A Gem of Azerbaijani Heritage

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeSag ol
  [sahg awl]
• YesBəli
  [buh-lee]
• NoXeyir
  [khay-eer]
• Please/You're welcomeXahiş edirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rem]
• Thank youÇox sağ ol
  [chox sahg awl]
• Excuse me/SorryBağışlayın
  [bah-ee-shlah-yuhn]
• How are you?Necəsən?
  [neh-jeh-suhn]
• Fine. And you?Yaxşıyam. Sən?
  [yahkh-shee-yahm. sahn]
• Do you speak English?İngilis dilinə bilsən?
  [een-gee-lees dee-lee-neh beel-suhn]
• I don't understandAnlamıram
  [ahn-lah-muh-rahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseXahiş edirəm menyuni görmək istəyirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rem mehn-yoo-nee gohr-mehk is-teh-yee-rem]
• I don't eat meatMən ət yemirəm
  [muhn aht yeh-mee-rehm]
• Cheers!Sağ olun!
  [sahg aw-loon]
• I would like to pay, pleaseXahiş edirəm ödəmək istəyirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rem oh-deh-mehk is-teh-yee-rem]

• Help!Kömək!
  [kuh-muhk]
• Go away!Uzun get!
  [oo-zoon geh-t]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağırın!
  [poh-lee-see chah-ghuh-ruhn]
• Call a doctor!Həkim çağırın!
  [heh-keem chah-ghuh-ruhn]
• I'm lostYolları itmişəm
  [yohl-lah-ruh eet-me-suhm]
• I'm illXəstəyəm
  [khuh-stuh-yehm]

• I'd like to buy...Almaq istəyirəm...
  [ahl-mahk is-teh-yee-rem]
• I'm just lookingSadəcə baxıram
  [sah-deh-jeh bah-khee-rahm]
• How much is it?Nə qədərdir?
  [neh guh-dehr-deer]
• That's too expensiveÇox bahadır
  [chox bah-hah-deer]
• Can you lower the price?Qiyməti endirə bilərsiniz?
  [kee-y-meh-tee en-dee-reh bee-lehr-see-neez]

• What time is it?Saat necədir?
  [sah-aht neh-jeh-deer]
• It's one o'clockSaat birdir
  [sah-aht beer-deer]
• Half past (10)Onun yarısı
  [o-noon yah-ruh-suh]
• MorningSəhər
  [suh-hehr]
• AfternoonGünorta
  [goon-oor-tah]
• EveningAxşam
  [akh-shahm]
• YesterdayDünən
  [doo-nehn]
• TodayBu gün
  [boo goon]
• TomorrowSabah
  [sah-bah]
• 1Bir
  [beer]
• 2İki
  [ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [ooch]
• 4Dörd
  [durrd]
• 5Beş
  [besh]
• 6Altı
  [ahl-tuh]
• 7Yeddi
  [yehd-dee]
• 8Səkkiz
  [sehk-keez]
• 9Doqquz
  [dohk-koos]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?...haradadır?
  [...hah-rah-dah-deer]
• What's the address?Ünvan necədir?
  [oon-vahn neh-jeh-deer]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mənə göstərə bilərsən (xəritədə)?
  [muh-neh guhs-teh-reh bee-lehr-suhn (khuh-ree-teh-duh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Növbəti (avtobus) neçədədir?
  [nuhvbuh-tee (ahv-toh-boos) neh-chuh-deer]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir biletlə (....-ə)
  [beer bee-leht-leh (....-uh)]

The history of Shaki dates back over 2,700 years, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the region was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age. It was initially known as Sakasena, named after the Saka tribe who settled in the area. The strategic location of Shaki made it an important stop on the Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between East and West.

In the 15th century, Shaki became part of the Shirvanshahs’ domain. However, it was during the 18th century that Shaki gained prominence as the capital of the Shaki Khanate. The Khanate was established in 1743 by Haji Chalabi Khan, and it flourished as an independent entity until it was annexed by the Russian Empire in 1805. The Khanate's legacy continues to be evident in the city's architecture and cultural practices.

Built in the late 18th century, the Palace of Shaki Khans is a stunning example of Azerbaijani architecture. This two-story structure was the summer residence of the Shaki Khans and is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stained-glass windows, and ornate wooden carvings. The palace is set within a lush garden, adding to its serene beauty. It stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Khanate period.

With the incorporation of Shaki into the Soviet Union in the early 20th century, the city underwent significant changes. Industrialization and modernization efforts transformed Shaki’s infrastructure and economy. While some traditional aspects of life were altered, the Soviet period also saw the establishment of educational institutions and cultural centers that contributed to the city's development.

Modern-day Shaki is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with contemporary life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its well-preserved architectural and urban ensemble. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals, including the annual Shaki Khan Palace International Music Festival, which celebrates its artistic traditions. Shaki continues to attract visitors with its historical sites, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences.

Shaki is located in the northwestern part of Azerbaijan. The nearest international airport is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, which is about 325 kilometers away. From Baku, you can take a direct bus, hire a private taxi, or rent a car to reach Shaki. The bus journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Baku to Yevlakh and then a taxi or bus for the remaining 85 kilometers to Shaki.

Within Shaki, the most convenient modes of transportation are taxis and buses. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can be flagged down on the street or booked via phone. Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) operate on various routes within the city and to nearby villages. For a more flexible schedule, renting a car is an option, though parking can be limited in some areas.

The official currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Shaki. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Shaki, but it’s wise to withdraw some cash in Baku before traveling.

Shaki is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The local police station and medical facilities, including the Shaki Central Hospital, are available for assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering mosques and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Shaki like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Azerbaijani goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Shaki Khan's Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, try the local sweet, 'Shaki halva,' and take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town.