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Shaki Castle: A Khanate Stronghold

Explore the historic Shaki Castle in Azerbaijan, a testament to the Shaki Khanate's rich heritage and architectural brilliance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Shaki Castle, built in the 18th century, was the citadel of the Shaki Khanate. Located in Sheki, Azerbaijan, the castle features impressive walls and houses the Palace of Shaki Khans, a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture.

A brief summary to Shaki Castle

  • 653W+FPV, Mirza Fatali Akhundov, Sheki, 5500, AZ
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Palace of Shaki Khans within the castle walls to witness the stunning 'shebeke' windows and opulent interior.
  • Explore the grounds to find a café and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Visit in the late afternoon to see the sunlight stream through the colored glass windows of the Palace of Shaki Khans.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Sheki, the castle is within walking distance. Head northeast, and you'll see the fortress walls on the hill. The walk uphill takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering views of the city. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sheki. A short taxi ride from the city center to Shaki Castle typically costs between 1-3 AZN. Agree on the fare before starting your trip. Taxis provide a convenient way to reach the castle entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run within Sheki. Look for buses that list 'Qala' (Fortress) or 'Khan Sarayi' (Khan's Palace) as a stop. Bus fares are typically around 0.30 AZN. Check with locals for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes.

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Discover more about Shaki Castle

Shaki Castle, located in the city of Sheki, Azerbaijan, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Constructed in the 18th century during the reign of the Shaki Khanate, the castle served as a strategic military outpost and royal residence. The fortress, substantially built during the reign of Haki Celebi Khan (1743-1755), was the Khan's citadel. The castle's architecture is a captivating blend of Persian, Ottoman, and local Azerbaijani styles. The intricate stonework, ornate carvings, and colorful frescoes reflect the diverse cultural influences that shaped the region. The castle's strategic location atop a hill provided a commanding view of the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal defensive position. The walls of the fortress are 1,300 meters long and 2.2 meters thick. One of the highlights of Shaki Castle is the Palace of Shaki Khans. Built in 1797 by Muhammed Hasan Khan, the palace served as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans. The palace is renowned for its intricate spatial composition, richly decorated interiors, and harmonious integration with the surrounding natural environment. The palace's interior is adorned with intricate frescoes depicting scenes from Azerbaijani history, mythology, and folklore. The walls and ceilings are covered in elaborate carvings and gilded ornaments. The palace also features stunning stained-glass windows, known as 'shebeke'. These windows are crafted from thousands of tiny pieces of colored glass, meticulously assembled without the use of glue or nails. Today, Shaki Castle welcomes visitors from around the globe, offering a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of the Khans. The castle also houses a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the Shaki Khanate.

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