Baku Old City (Icheri Sheher)
The Baku Old City, also known as Icheri Sheher, is the historical core of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. It is a walled city that has been inhabited since the 8th century and is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in the country. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a number of important historical monuments, including the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, the Maiden Tower, and the Juma Mosque.
History
The Baku Old City was founded in the 8th century by the Shirvanshahs, a dynasty that ruled over the region for over 500 years. The city quickly became an important trading center and was home to a diverse population of merchants, artisans, and scholars. In the 12th century, the Shirvanshahs built the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, which is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture. The city was later conquered by the Mongols, the Persians, and the Ottomans, but it retained its importance as a trading center. In the 19th century, Baku became an important center for the oil industry, and the Old City was gradually abandoned. However, in the 1970s, the Soviet government began a restoration project that has helped to preserve the Old City and make it a popular tourist destination.
Things to See and Do
There are many things to see and do in the Baku Old City. Here are a few of the most popular attractions:
- The Shirvanshahs’ Palace: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important historical monuments in Azerbaijan. The palace was built in the 12th century and was the home of the Shirvanshahs for over 500 years. The palace is a complex of buildings that includes a harem, a mosque, and a bathhouse.
The Maiden Tower: This is a 12th-century tower that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Baku. The tower is 29 meters tall and has eight floors. The purpose of the tower is unknown, but it is thought to have been used as a watchtower, a lighthouse, or a fire temple.
The Juma Mosque: This is the oldest mosque in Baku and was built in the 12th century. The mosque is a small but beautiful building that is made of brick and stone. The mosque has a minaret that is 22 meters tall.
- The Caravanserais: These are large inns that were built to accommodate merchants and travelers. The caravanserais are typically two or three stories tall and have a courtyard in the center. There are several caravanserais in the Old City, some of which are still in use today.
- The Hammams: These are public baths that were popular in the Middle East. The hammams in the Old City are typically large and have several rooms, including a hot room, a cold room, and a massage room. Some of the hammams in the Old City are still in use today.
- The Workshops: The Old City is home to a number of workshops where artisans make traditional Azerbaijani crafts, such as carpets, ceramics, and jewelry. Visitors can watch the artisans at work and purchase their products.
- The Restaurants: The Old City is home to a number of restaurants that serve traditional Azerbaijani cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the views of the city.
How to Get There
The Baku Old City is located in the center of Baku and is easily accessible by public transportation. The city’s main bus and metro stations are located within walking distance of the Old City. There are also a number of taxis that operate in the city.
Tips
- The best time to visit the Baku Old City is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild.
- The Old City is a pedestrian-only zone, so visitors should be prepared to walk.
- There are a number of ATMs located in the Old City, but it is always a good idea to bring some cash with you.
- The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, but Russian is also widely spoken. English is not as widely spoken, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas.
- Be sure to bargain when shopping in the Old City.
- Tipping is not expected in Azerbaijan, but it is appreciated.
We hope this helps!