Background

Şəki Xan Sarayı: A Glimpse into Azerbaijan's Khanate Past

Discover Azerbaijan's architectural gem: The Palace of Shaki Khans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mosaics and rich history.

4.4

The Palace of Shaki Khans, a jewel of Azerbaijani architecture, served as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans in the 18th century. Located in Sheki, Azerbaijan, the palace showcases a unique blend of Persian, Ottoman, and Azerbaijani architectural styles and is renowned for its intricate mosaics, vibrant murals, and stunning stained-glass windows.

A brief summary to Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

  • 653X+Q36, Sheki, AZ

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting, as the sun streams through the stained-glass windows, creating a beautiful mosaic on the floors.
  • Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the palace's history and architecture.
  • Explore the surrounding gardens for stunning views and relaxation.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Sheki City Park in the city center, walk east on Nizami Street towards the main road. Continue to the intersection with Qurban Mammadov Street, turn left, and walk for about 500 meters. The Palace of Shaki Khans will be on your right. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Sheki Bus Station, take a local minibus (marshrutka) towards the city center. Get off at the stop nearest to Sheki City Park. Then, follow the walking directions from the park to reach the Palace of Shaki Khans. A single fare on the marshrutka costs approximately 0.30 AZN.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Sheki. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Palace of Shaki Khans costs approximately 3.50 AZN.

Unlock the Best of Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans) is a historic monument in Sheki, Azerbaijan, that served as the summer residence of the Shaki Khans. Constructed in 1797 by Muhammad Husayn Khan Mushtaq, the palace exemplifies Eastern architecture, drawing inspiration from Persian and Ottoman traditions. The palace was nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. The two-story structure measures 32 meters by 8.5 meters and features a wooden hipped roof with long eaves. The exterior is adorned with a mosaic of colored glass set in a wooden latticework (shebeke), assembled without nails or glue. This allows light to filter through, creating a dazzling array of colors inside. The interior walls boast vibrant murals depicting battles, hunting expeditions, and floral motifs, offering a glimpse into the life and times of the Shaki Khans. The central upper chamber showcases heroic scenes from Haci Çələbi's 1743 battle with Persian emperor Nader Shah. Visitors can explore the palace's rooms, admire the shebeke windows, and wander through the surrounding rose garden. The palace provides an immersive experience into the region's history, art, and culture.

Popular Experiences near Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

Popular Hotels near Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

Select Currency