Absheron Castles Tour
Dubandi, AZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the ancient Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve
- Visit the impressive Mardakan Quadrangular Castle
- Discover the historic Ramana Castle in one of the oldest villages of Baku
- Get acquainted with the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography in the Open Air
- Experience the Castle Museum and Museum of Antiques inside the Gala Museum Complex
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Duration 4 to 5 hours
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Private Tour Experience
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Professional Guide included
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Hotel pickup & drop-off
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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1 x Bottle of water included
Discover the historic treasures of Azerbaijan's Absheron Peninsula on the Absheron Castles Tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of the region as you visit the ancient Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve, Mardakan Quadrangular Castle, Ramana Castle, and Mardakan Round Castle. Explore the open-air Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, Castle Museum, and Museum of Antiques, where you can admire traditional Absheron buildings, archaeological finds, and petroglyphs. Marvel at the impressive Mardakan Castle with its five-tiered structure and 76 stairs, and visit the Mardakan Round Tower with its Arabic inscriptions and watchtowers. Experience the charm of Ramana, one of Baku's oldest villages, and soak in the local traditions and social conventions preserved by its inhabitants. Embark on this cultural journey and discover the hidden gems of Absheron Peninsula.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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4 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the historical Absheron Castles with a private guide, visiting ancient sites and museums in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Included
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Hotel pickup & drop-off -
1 x Bottle of water (0,5 L) p/p per day
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Professional Licensed Tour Guide & Driver
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Touristic Destinations mentioned in the tour program
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In-vehicle air conditioning
Excluded
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All fees and taxes -
Personal expenses
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Any meals & drinks
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve is a complex of museums in Baku, Azerbaijan. The area of the museum extends to approximately 2 hectares. It is located in Gala, 40km far from Baku and bears the name of this district. Gala-State Historical Ethnographic Reserve is devoted to the history of the Absheron Peninsula.The reserve was established in the year of 2008 under the auspices of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. This impressive open-air park-museum features several furnished, traditional-style Absheron buildings – such as a house, blacksmith's forge, potters' workshop. Some are originals while others are reconstructions, and all are set amid a wide range of archaeological finds and petroglyphs. There's minimal shade so visiting in mid-summer can be exhausting.Three different types of museums: Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography (open-air), Castle Museum (partly open-air), and the Museum of Antiques are located on the territory of the reserve.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
Mardakan castle is a quadrangular historic castle located in Mardakan, Baku. It is one of the most noticeable castles in Mardakan. The castle was built in the middle of the 12th century by Akhsitan I, son of the Manuchihr III. It was erected after the victory of Akhsitan I. The castle was used as a shelter and observation point of feudals.The castle was built in a quadrangular form. It is divided into 5 tiers. The castle consists of 6 rooms. The inner courtyard of the castle is 28×25 m. The height of the tower is 22 meters. The thickness of it is 2.10 meters at lower part and 1.60 meters at upper portion. There are 76 stairs in the castle. Mardakan- Round Tower. Round Tower is a castle located in Mardakan near Baku. The castle is also called Shikh fortress by local residents. At the top of the gate of the tower, there are three inscriptions written in Arabic on a large rectangular stone layer. The fortress surrounding the tower consists of a square-shaped yard, surrounded by stone walls, seven meters high on each side. At the corners of the fortress wall, there are towers, railing, and watchtowers. The tower is round in the plan and it gets narrow upward.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
Ramana is one of the oldest villages of Baku. Allegedly it has been found by Roman troops. But later in 18th century it became a property of khans of Afshar origin from South Azerbaijan. During late 19th and early 20th century, the village was producing industrially huge volume of oil. Though it is dormant, there area is still operated by SOCAR.There are two stairs for walking up to the tower walls. It is possible to walk up by spiral stairs from the inner side of the tower to a corridor, which was built about 3 meters (outside of the tower. The other stone stair walks up to the upper side of the tower from the garden. By means of these stairs, it is possible to walk up to the tower walls and look at the village. The population of these villages still preserve local traditions and social conventions communally. This is to say that you'll definitely invitation for dinner. But of course you should kindly reject it.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Visit during early morning for cooler temps -
Pack sunscreen; minimal shade at sites
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Try local cuisine at nearby Qala Cafe
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Check out petroglyphs near Gala Reserve
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Consider exploring Baku's Old City after
More About this Experience
Introduction
The Absheron Castles Tour is an incredible journey that takes you on a fascinating exploration of ancient history and architectural wonders in the Absheron Peninsula. This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of the rich cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, providing you with unique insights into the region's past.What to expect?
During the Absheron Castles Tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve, which covers approximately 2 hectares of land in Gala, Baku. This open-air park-museum features traditional-style Absheron buildings, archaeological finds, and petroglyphs. You will have the opportunity to visit three different types of museums: the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Castle Museum, and the Museum of Antiques. In addition, you will explore the impressive Mardakan Quadrangular Castle and the Mardakan Round Castle. These historic structures showcase the architectural prowess of the past, with their intricate designs and fascinating stories. The Mardakan Castle consists of six rooms and offers panoramic views from its tower, while the Round Tower is a unique sight with inscriptions written in Arabic. The tour also includes a visit to Ramana Castle, one of the oldest villages in Baku. Here, you can walk up the tower walls and gaze at the picturesque village below, while gaining insights into the local traditions and social conventions.Who is this for?
The Absheron Castles Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of Azerbaijan. It is ideal for individuals or groups who want to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history, architecture, and local traditions.Why book this?
By booking the Absheron Castles Tour, you will embark on a captivating journey that will transport you back in time. This tour allows you to witness the grandeur of ancient castles, explore open-air museums, and discover the hidden stories behind each architectural masterpiece. With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, you will gain a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of these landmarks. It is an experience that combines education and adventure, providing you with memories that will last a lifetime.Good to know
It is important to note that the Absheron Castles Tour has a total duration of 240 to 300 minutes, allowing you ample time to explore each attraction. However, it is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, as some areas may have minimal shade. Additionally, during your visit to Ramana Castle, you may receive invitations for dinner from the friendly local population. While it is customary, you have the option to politely decline.Reviews
Reviews from individuals who have experienced the Absheron Castles Tour rave about the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Azerbaijan. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides who offer detailed explanations, making the tour both informative and engaging. The architectural beauty of the castles leaves a lasting impression, and many visitors are fascinated by the cultural significance attached to each structure. Overall, the Absheron Castles Tour is highly recommended for those seeking an enriching and memorable travel experience.
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