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Icherisheher: Baku's Ancient Heart

Explore Icherisheher, Baku's ancient walled city: a UNESCO site with medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and centuries of history.

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Icherisheher, also known as the Old City, is the historical core of Baku, Azerbaijan, dating back to at least the 12th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features well-preserved walls, narrow, winding streets, and a rich history reflecting Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvanshah, Ottoman, and Russian influences.

A brief summary to Icherisheher

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets.
  • Explore the Old City by wandering through the back alleys.
  • Try traditional Azerbaijani cuisine in one of the local restaurants.
  • Visit the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of Icherisheher and Baku Bay.
  • Engage with local residents in tea houses to experience daily life.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Heydar Aliyev International Airport, take the Airport Express bus to the city center; the trip costs 1.30 AZN and is paid for with a BakuCard. Get off at a central stop and transfer to the Baku Metro. Take the Red Line to Icherisheher station, which is located right next to the Old City. A single metro fare is 0.30 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baku, including at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in Baku. A taxi from the airport to Icherisheher will cost approximately 20-30 AZN, depending on traffic. From the city center, a short taxi ride to Icherisheher should cost around 4-6 AZN.

  • Walking

    From Baku city center, such as Nizami Street, Icherisheher is accessible by foot. The walk is approximately 5 kilometers and takes about an hour. Follow Nizami Street towards the Old City walls. As you approach the walls, you'll find the main entrance gate, Gosha Gala Gapisi.

  • Parking

    Parking inside Icherisheher is limited, and access may be restricted to residents. If you drive, be aware that parking can be expensive, with hourly rates around 5 AZN. There are parking lots near the Old City, such as on Boyuk Gala street. Non-residents entering the area may be charged 3 AZN for the first 15 minutes and 5 AZN for each subsequent hour. Payment is typically electronic.

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Discover more about Icherisheher

Icherisheher, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest part of Baku, showcasing a history stretching back to the Bronze Age. Known as the Inner City or Old Town, it is a historical and architectural reserve in the heart of Azerbaijan's capital. The area has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period and displays cultural influences from numerous civilizations. Enclosed by formidable fortress walls, Icherisheher was historically the main part of the city, with its development taking off in the 15th century when the Shirvanshahs moved their capital to Baku. Key landmarks include the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a 15th-century palace complex, and the enigmatic Maiden Tower, possibly dating back to the 12th century. The Old City is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Miniature Books and the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. Today, Icherisheher is a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a thriving residential community. Visitors can explore its winding streets, discover hidden courtyards, and immerse themselves in Azerbaijani culture.

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