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Shaki Castle: A Khanate's Legacy

Discover Shaki Castle: A blend of Persian, Ottoman, and Azerbaijani architecture, reflecting the rich history of the Silk Road.

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Shaki Castle, built in the 18th century, is a historical monument that once served as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans. Located in Sheki, Azerbaijan, the castle showcases a captivating blend of Persian, Ottoman, and local Azerbaijani architectural styles.

A brief summary to Shaki Castle

  • 653W+FPV, Mirza Fatali Akhundov, Sheki, 5500, AZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk to the castle is mostly uphill.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the palace.
  • Check the opening hours, as the cash office has a lunch break between 1 PM and 2 PM.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The easiest way to reach Shaki Castle is by foot from the center of Sheki. From the Juma Mosque, it's approximately a 30-minute walk. From the Lower Caravanserai, it takes around 15 minutes. Keep in mind that the walk is mostly uphill and can be steep. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Several city buses, including bus 22, can take you up to the castle via Akhundzade Avenue. They stop at the main entrance to the castle. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the palace up a reasonably steep riverstone street. The bus fare is approximately 0.30 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sheki. A taxi from the city center to the castle costs approximately 1-2 AZN when booked on the Bolt app. Parking facilities are available near the palace.

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Discover more about Shaki Castle

Shaki Castle, nestled in the city of Sheki, Azerbaijan, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and cultural fusion. Constructed in 1797 by Muhammed Hasan Khan, it served as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans. The castle's strategic location atop a hill provided a commanding view of the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal defensive position. The architecture of Shaki Castle is a captivating blend of Persian, Ottoman, and local Azerbaijani styles. The intricate stonework, ornate carvings, and colorful frescoes reflect the diverse cultural influences that shaped the region. One of the most striking features of Shaki Castle is its stunning stained-glass windows, known as 'shebeke'. These intricate windows are crafted from thousands of tiny pieces of colored glass, meticulously assembled without the use of glue or nails. The shebeke windows fill the castle's interior with a kaleidoscope of light and color, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. The castle's history is intertwined with the story of the Shaki Khanate, a powerful entity that emerged in the Caucasus in the 18th century. Founded by Haji Chelebi Khan in 1743, the Khanate flourished as a center of trade and culture, attracting merchants and artisans from across the region. The castle served as the Khan's primary residence and administrative center, a symbol of his power and authority. The walls of the fortress stretch 1,300 meters and enclose a complex that once housed around 40 buildings, reflecting Sheki's vital role as an administrative and commercial hub along the Silk Road. Today, Shaki Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the palace's grand halls, royal chambers, and reception rooms, which are adorned with beautiful frescoes and murals. The grounds of the fortress also include a café and shops selling local crafts.

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