Khan Mosque and Cemetary, Sheki Travel Guide

The Khan Mosque and Cemetery in Sheki offers a serene and historically rich experience. Constructed in the 18th century (circa 1769-70) by Sheki Khan Mohammed Huseyn Khan Mushtag, the mosque, initially known as the First Friday Mosque, stands as a testament to the region's Islamic heritage. The mosque's architecture embodies simplicity and elegance, utilizing local materials like river stones, baked bricks, and wood from plane, pistachio, and walnut trees. Its exterior features a gallery, while towering plane trees enhance its beauty.Adjacent to the mosque lies the Khan Cemetery, the final resting place for Sheki Khans and their family members. The tombstones are adorned with intricate carvings, offering a glimpse into local burial customs and traditions. A two-story museum within the complex showcases artifacts from the Sheki Khanate period, providing insights into the region's history and culture. The complex is located within the Yukhari Bash National Historical-Architectural Reserve, a short walk from the Upper Caravanserai.The mosque suffered damage from a fire in 1853 but was restored by local residents. During the Soviet era, it was repurposed as a House of Intelligentsia. Extensive restoration work was completed in 2022, and the complex has since reopened to the public for both worship and sightseeing. Today, the Khan Mosque and Cemetery offer visitors a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with Sheki's rich past.