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Şəki Xan Sarayı: A Jewel of Azerbaijani Architecture

Discover Azerbaijan's rich history and culture at the Palace of Shaki Khans, a stunning architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Palace of Shaki Khans, located in Sheki, Azerbaijan, is an 18th-century palace that served as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans. Today, it operates as a museum, drawing visitors with its stunning design, historical significance, and unique blend of Persian, Ottoman, and Azerbaijani architectural styles.

A brief summary to Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

  • 653X+Q36, Sheki, AZ

Local tips

  • Photography is not allowed inside the palace.
  • Visitors are taken in groups to prevent overcrowding.
  • Some steps inside may be difficult for elderly people to climb.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Şəki Xan Sarayı via public transport, take a bus to Sheki. From Sheki Bus Station (Şəki Avtovağzalı), take a local minibus (marshrutka) heading towards the city center. Get off at the stop nearest to Sheki City Park (Şəki Şəhər Parkı). Then, follow the walking directions from the park to reach the Palace of Shaki Khans. A single fare on the marshrutka costs approximately 0.30 AZN.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Sheki and prefer walking, from the city center (Nizami Square), walk north along Heydar Aliyev Avenue for about 1 kilometer. Keep an eye out for the signs pointing towards Şəki Xan Sarayı. The walk should take around 15 to 20 minutes and offers a chance to enjoy the local scenery.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Sheki. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Palace of Shaki Khans will typically cost around 2 to 5 AZN.

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Discover more about Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans)

Şəki Xan Sarayı (The Palace of Shaki Khans) is a historic monument in Sheki, Azerbaijan, that once served as the summer residence of the Shaki Khans. Constructed in 1797 by Muhammad Husayn Khan Mushtaq, the palace exemplifies Eastern architecture, blending Persian, Ottoman, and local Azerbaijani styles. The palace was nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998 and officially inscribed in 2019, recognizing its outstanding universal value. The two-story structure measures thirty-two meters by eight and a half meters and is covered with a wooden hipped roof. The exterior is decorated with dark blue, turquoise, and ochre tiles in geometric patterns. Large portions of the facade are covered in a mosaic of colored glass set in a wooden latticework (shebeke) assembled without nails or glue. The stained-glass windows, known as shebeke, are a particular highlight. These intricate geometric designs are made from thousands of tiny pieces of colored glass, fitted together with remarkable precision. Inside, the palace walls are adorned with vibrant murals depicting scenes of battles, hunting expeditions, and floral motifs, offering a glimpse into the life and times of the Shaki Khans. The central upper chamber features heroic scenes of Haci Çələbi's 1743 battle with Persian emperor Nader Shah. The palace is set within a walled rose garden, adding to its charm and tranquility. Visiting the Palace of Shaki Khans is an immersive experience that transports you back in time.

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