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Shebeke Workshop: The Soul of Sheki's Stained Glass Art

Witness the ancient art of Shebeke in Sheki, Azerbaijan, where intricate stained glass mosaics are crafted without glue or nails.

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Discover the ancient art of Shebeke at this workshop in Sheki, Azerbaijan, where skilled artisans create intricate stained glass mosaics without glue or nails, preserving a unique cultural heritage rooted in the Silk Road. Witness the meticulous process and try your hand at crafting your own shebeke window.

A brief summary to Shebeke Workshop

Local tips

  • Visit the workshop to witness artisans crafting intricate shebeke windows and learn about the history of this unique art form.
  • Try your hand at crafting your own shebeke window under the guidance of experienced artisans.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Sheki Khan's Palace to see stunning examples of shebeke art in a historical setting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Sheki City Center, walk east on Ganjlik Street towards Vidadi Street. Continue for approximately 500 meters until you reach the intersection with Vidadi Street. Turn left onto Vidadi Street and walk for about 300 meters. The Shebeke Workshop will be on your right at 85 Vidadi Street. The walk is relatively flat and should take about 10-15 minutes. Look for the distinctive traditional Azerbaijani architecture of the workshop building.

  • Public Transport

    From the Sheki Bus Station, take bus number 5 or 12 towards the city center. Get off at the Akhundov Park stop, which is near the city center. From there, walk east on Ganjlik Street, then turn left onto Vidadi Street. The Shebeke Workshop will be on your right at 85 Vidadi Street. The bus fare is 0.30 AZN [approximately $0.20 USD]. The walk from the bus stop is about 10 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in central Sheki, a taxi to the Shebeke Workshop will cost approximately 2-3 AZN [approximately $1.20 - $1.80 USD]. Ask the driver to take you to 85 Vidadi Street. The ride should take no more than 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Shebeke Workshop

The Shebeke Workshop in Sheki is a living embodiment of Azerbaijani craftsmanship, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the intricate art of *shebeke*. *Shebeke* is a mesmerizing stained glass technique unique to this region, where masterpieces are created without glue or nails. The word “shebeke” translates from Azerbaijani as “net,” referring to the intricate patterns made from colored glass and wooden strips. Often compared to stained glass, *shebeke* is characterized by its vibrant glass components. During the era of the Sheki Khanate, *shebeke* reached its zenith. The khans commissioned numerous *shebeke* masterpieces to adorn their palaces and mosques. The most famous example is the Sheki Khan's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning *shebeke* windows. At the workshop, observe the breathtaking mosaics created from thousands of tiny pieces of colored glass assembled into wooden lattice windows of all shapes and sizes. One of the most renowned *shebeke* artisans in Sheki is Tofiq Rasulov, who learned the craft from his father and has been practicing it for 45 years. The process is time-consuming and involves several stages. Creating a square meter of *shebeke* can take nearly two months of labor. Prices vary based on the complexity of the pattern. Beyond the visual splendor, the workshop offers a glimpse into the soul of Sheki. It's a place where tradition is honored, creativity is celebrated, and the spirit of Azerbaijani hospitality shines brightly.

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