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Lahich: A Living Museum of Ancient Crafts

Discover Lahich, Azerbaijan: A historic mountain village where ancient crafts and traditions come to life. Explore copper workshops and cobblestone streets.

Nestled in the Greater Caucasus mountains, Lahich is an ancient village renowned for its traditional crafts, particularly coppersmithing. Its cobblestone streets and historic architecture offer a glimpse into Azerbaijan's rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors seeking an authentic step back in time.

A brief summary to Lahich

  • Lahich, AZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.
  • Bargain respectfully when purchasing handicrafts.
  • Try local cuisine at one of the teashops hidden off the main street.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Baku, Lahich is approximately a 3-4 hour drive. The most common route takes you off the main highway at Tazakand. The final mountain road to Lahich is sealed but can be bumpy. Consider renting a car or hiring a driver in Baku. A private taxi from Ismailli to Lahich costs around 35 AZN for a round trip.

  • Public Transport

    Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Baku's International Bus Terminal to Ismailli. The bus departs at 9 am and costs around 8 AZN. From Ismailli, take a local bus or taxi to Lahich. A local bus from Ismailli to Lahich costs around 5 AZN. A taxi from Ismailli to Lahich costs approximately 12 AZN for a one-way trip.

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Discover more about Lahich

Lahich, also known as Lahij, is a remote mountain village in Azerbaijan, located about 180 kilometers from Baku. Situated in the Girdimanchay River Gorge, this village of fewer than 1,000 people is a living museum, showcasing traditional crafts and a unique way of life. Founded possibly as early as the 4th century, Lahich has been a prominent center for craftsmanship for centuries. It was a key point on the Silk Road, trading in metal goods. The village gained fame for its artisans, who mastered over 40 types of folk arts, with coppersmiths and metalworkers achieving particular renown. Even today, the sound of hammers shaping copper echoes through the streets. The skills of smelting and engraving may have been learned in Iran, and the Tati Persian language is still spoken here. Lahich's architecture reflects its history and resilience. Traditional stone houses, designed to withstand earthquakes, line the cobblestone streets. The village is divided into quarters based on ancestral crafts, each with its own mosque, bathhouse, and graveyard. Tourism has been a part of Lahich since the Soviet era when it was established as a Historical-Cultural Reserve. Visitors can explore workshops, purchase handicrafts, and experience the old-world atmosphere.

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