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Shakhendan Mausoleum: Echoes of History

Explore the ancient Shakhendan Mausoleum in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, a historic cemetery with ties to the poet Nasimi.

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The Shakhendan Mausoleum, located in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, is the city's oldest surviving cemetery, holding historical and cultural significance. It is believed to be the burial site of Shakhandan, brother of the renowned 15th-century poet Nasimi, and features an octagonal mausoleum with ancient tombstones dating back centuries.

A brief summary to Shakhendan Mausoleum

  • JJHM+G5H, Shamakhi, 5600, AZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery grounds may be uneven.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the mausoleum and its surrounding area.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Shamakhi, the Shakhendan Mausoleum is located southwest of the city center. From the Shamakhi Juma Mosque, head southwest along the main road. The mausoleum is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. There are no entrance fees to access the site.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Shamakhi. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Shakhendan Mausoleum will cost approximately 2-3 AZN. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Shakhendan Mausoleum

The Shakhendan Mausoleum, situated in the southwestern part of Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, stands as the city's oldest surviving ancient cemetery. The cemetery is named after Shakhandan (Shah-i-khandan), believed to be the brother of the celebrated 15th-century poet Nasimi. According to local lore, Shahide-khandan, meaning 'handsome merry man,' was Nasimi's brother's nickname, and the cemetery was named in his honor. The site features the ruins of an octagonal mausoleum. Inside, two graves are present, with one headstone slightly submerged in the ground. Atmospheric conditions have unfortunately erased the inscriptions. However, the submerged tombstone displays an image characteristic of Azerbaijani gravestones from the 14th and 15th centuries. Archeologist Huseyn Jiddi suggests this could be the grave of 'Shahide-Khandan,' Nasimi's brother, indicating the area served as the city cemetery during the 14th-15th centuries. Researchers have concluded that some graves date back to the 11th-12th centuries based on Kufic inscriptions on the gravestones. Jiddi posits that Shakhandan was likely Shamakhi's primary cemetery in the Middle Ages. As the city expanded, the main cemetery shifted to a hill where the Yeddi Gumbaz and Lalezar cemeteries are now located. The renowned Azerbaijani poet Seyid Azim Shirvani requested burial in the Shakhandan cemetery, and his grave is also located there. Shakhendan provides a glimpse into Azerbaijan's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty.

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