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Lower Caravanserai: A Silk Road Relic in Sheki

Explore Sheki's Lower Caravanserai, a Silk Road treasure showcasing Azerbaijan's rich trading history and architectural heritage.

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The Lower Caravanserai in Sheki, Azerbaijan, is a historic 18th-century trading post that once accommodated merchants and travelers along the Silk Road. With its fortress-like design and blend of Azerbaijani, Persian, and Ottoman architectural influences, it offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural exchange and commercial past.

A brief summary to Lower Caravanserai

  • 652R+7H2, Sheki, AZ

Local tips

  • Explore the exterior architecture, noting the blend of Azerbaijani, Persian, and Ottoman influences.
  • Visit the nearby Sheki Khan's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a comprehensive glimpse into the city's cultural heritage.
  • Wander through Sheki's charming streets and vibrant markets to experience the city's atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Sheki, the Lower Caravanserai is easily accessible on foot. Head east, and you'll find it on the main street, not far from the Sheki Khan's Palace. The walk is relatively short and allows you to take in the local scenery.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses in Sheki run regularly and can take you to the vicinity of the Lower Caravanserai. Look for buses that list 'Bazaar' or 'Khan's Palace' as a stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the caravanserai.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sheki. A short taxi ride from most points in the city center to the Lower Caravanserai should cost approximately 1-3 AZN. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Lower Caravanserai

The Lower Caravanserai, also known as Ashaghy Caravanserai, stands as a remarkable testament to Sheki's pivotal role on the Silk Road. Constructed in the 18th century, this expansive complex provided lodging, secure storage, and trading space for merchants and their caravans. Its architecture reflects a fusion of Azerbaijani, Persian, and Ottoman styles, highlighting the cultural diversity that characterized the region. The caravanserai features a large inner courtyard surrounded by numerous rooms that served as lodging for merchants and travelers, storage for goods, and stables for animals. The design emphasized security, with imposing walls and fortified gates to protect against bandits. The central courtyard facilitated business, information exchange, and social interaction. Essential amenities such as bathhouses, mosques and workshops catered to the diverse needs of its inhabitants. Today, the Lower Caravanserai stands as a reminder of Sheki's historical significance and cultural richness. Restoration work has been ongoing since 2010. While the Upper Caravanserai is open as a hotel and cultural site, the Lower Caravanserai is not currently open to the public. However, its exterior can still be admired, and it remains an important landmark in Sheki.

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