Shamakhi: Azerbaijan's Historical Jewel

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeSag ol
  [sahg awl]
• YesBəli
  [buh-lee]
• NoXeyr
  [khayr]
• Please/You're welcomeXahiş edirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rehm]
• Thank youTəşəkkür edirəm
  [teh-shehk-koor eh-dee-rehm]
• Excuse me/SorryBağışlayın
  [bah-guhsh-lah-yuhn]
• How are you?Necəsən?
  [neh-jeh-suhn]
• Fine. And you?Yaxşıyam. Sən?
  [yahkh-shee-yahm. sahn?]
• Do you speak English?İngilis dilində danışırsınız?
  [een-gee-lees dee-leen-deh dah-nee-shir-suh-nuhz?]
• I don't understandAnlamıram
  [ahn-lah-muh-rahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseZəhmət olmasa, menyunu görmək istəyirəm
  [zuhm-ehht ohl-mah-sah, mehn-yuh-noo gohr-mehk ees-teh-yee-rehm]
• I don't eat meatMən ət yemirəm
  [muhn aht yeh-mee-rehm]
• Cheers!Sağ olun!
  [sahg awl-oon]
• I would like to pay, pleaseZəhmət olmasa, ödəmək istəyirəm
  [zuhm-ehht ohl-mah-sah, oh-deh-mehk ees-teh-yee-rehm]

• Help!Kömək edin!
  [kuh-muhk eh-deen!]
• Go away!Uzaqlaşın!
  [oo-zahk-lah-shuhn!]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağırın!
  [poh-lee-see chah-ee-ruhn!]
• Call a doctor!Həkim çağırın!
  [heh-keem chah-ee-ruhn!]
• I'm lostMən itirəm
  [muhn ee-tee-rehm]
• I'm illMən xəstəyəm
  [muhn khuh-stuh-yuhm]

• I'd like to buy...Almaq istəyirəm...
  [ahl-mahk ees-teh-yee-rehm...]
• I'm just lookingSadəcə baxıram
  [sah-deh-jeh bakh-uh-rahm]
• How much is it?Neçəyədir?
  [neh-jeh-yeh-deer?]
• That's too expensiveÇox bahalıdır
  [choh bah-hah-luh-duhr]
• Can you lower the price?Qiyməti azaldıra bilərsiniz?
  [kee-meh-tee ah-zahl-duh-rah bee-luhr-sih-niz?]

• What time is it?Saat necədir?
  [saht neh-jeh-deer?]
• It's one o'clockSaat birdir
  [saht beer-deer]
• Half past (10)Onun yarısı
  [oh-noon yah-ruh-suh]
• MorningSəhər
  [suh-hehr]
• AfternoonGünortası
  [goo-nohr-tah-suh]
• EveningAxşam
  [ahkh-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
  [dok-kooz]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?...haradadır?
  [...hah-rah-dah-duhr?]
• What's the address?Ünvanı nədir?
  [oon-vah-nuh neh-deer?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mənə (xəritədə) göstərə bilərsiniz?
  [muh-nuh (khuh-ree-teh-duh) gohs-teh-ruh bee-luhr-sih-niz?]
• When's the next (bus)?Növbəti (avtobus) neçədədir?
  [nuhv-beh-tee (ahv-toh-boos) neh-jeh-deer?]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir biletlə (....-a)
  [beer bee-leht-luh (....-uh)]

Shamakhi, one of the most ancient cities in Azerbaijan, dates back to the 5th century BCE. It was a significant trade and cultural center in the Caucasus region, known for its strategic location along the Silk Road. Archaeological findings reveal early human settlements and artifacts, showcasing the city's long-standing importance in regional history.

From the 8th century to the 16th century, Shamakhi served as the capital of the Shirvanshahs, a medieval Muslim dynasty. During this period, the city flourished as a hub of commerce, art, and science. The Shirvanshahs contributed significantly to the architectural and cultural landscape of Shamakhi, leaving behind monuments such as the Juma Mosque, originally built in the 8th century.

Shamakhi has experienced several devastating earthquakes throughout its history, the most notable ones occurring in 1191, 1667, and 1859. These earthquakes caused significant destruction and led to repeated rebuilding efforts. The resilience of the city's inhabitants is evident in their ability to restore and preserve Shamakhi's cultural and historical heritage despite these natural disasters.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Shamakhi came under the control of the Safavid Empire and later, the Ottoman Empire. These periods saw further cultural enrichment and architectural development. The city became a melting pot of Persian, Turkish, and local influences, which is still evident in its diverse cultural traditions and historical sites.

In the early 19th century, Shamakhi became part of the Russian Empire following the Treaty of Gulistan in 1813. This era introduced new administrative changes and infrastructural developments. The city's significance as a cultural and trade center was recognized, and efforts were made to modernize it, including the establishment of schools and public buildings.

Shamakhi has been a source of inspiration for many poets, writers, and artists throughout history. The renowned Azerbaijani poet, Mirza Alakbar Sabir, was born here, and his satirical works reflect the social and political issues of his time. The city’s rich literary and artistic heritage continues to be celebrated, with numerous cultural events and festivals held annually.

Today, Shamakhi is a vibrant city that harmoniously blends its historical past with modern developments. It is known for its scenic landscapes, including the famous vineyards and the stunning Caucasus Mountains backdrop. The city remains a testament to its enduring legacy, attracting tourists with its historical landmarks, cultural festivals, and natural beauty.

Shamakhi is located in the Shamakhi District of Azerbaijan. The nearest international airport is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Baku, you can take a taxi, a bus, or a marshrutka (minibus) to Shamakhi. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. There are also private transfer services available, which can be pre-booked for added convenience.

Shamakhi is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive for longer trips within the town or to nearby attractions. Public buses operate within Shamakhi and connect to surrounding villages. Renting a car is also an option, providing more flexibility for exploring the region at your own pace.

The official currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Shamakhi, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Shamakhi, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Baku before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Shamakhi is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Shamakhi does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Shamakhi. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are 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. Always cover your head when entering mosques. 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 Shamakhi 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 Juma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, and the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum. For a unique experience, attend a local cultural event or festival to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the region.