Discovering Sheki: What to See and Eat in Azerbaijan’s Cultural Gem
Nestled at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is one of Azerbaijan’s most picturesque and culturally rich cities. With its stunning architecture, deep-rooted history, and delightful cuisine, Sheki offers visitors an authentic Azerbaijani experience. Known for its charming cobbled streets, lush green hills, and traditional crafts, this city is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Caucasus region. In this blog, we’ll explore the top attractions in Sheki and the local dishes you simply must try during your visit.
What to See in Sheki
- Sheki Khan’s Palace (Palace of Shaki Khans) One of the most iconic landmarks in Azerbaijan, Sheki Khan’s Palace is a masterpiece of 18th-century Azerbaijani architecture. The palace was the summer residence of the Sheki Khans and is renowned for its intricate stained glass windows (known as shebeke) and detailed frescoes that adorn its walls. Visitors are captivated by the vibrant colors and the artistry that went into the design of this palace. It’s a true architectural marvel that offers a glimpse into the opulence of the khans who once ruled the region.
- Sheki Caravanserai Sheki’s location on the historic Silk Road made it an important center for trade, and the Sheki Caravanserai stands as a testament to this heritage. This large, fortress-like structure was once a resting place for merchants and travelers, offering them shelter and a place to conduct business. Today, the caravanserai has been restored and serves as a hotel and restaurant, but visitors can still explore its inner courtyard, arches, and grand halls to get a sense of the bustling trade that once passed through its gates.
- Church of Kish (Kiş Albanian Church) Just outside Sheki, in the village of Kish, lies one of the most significant historical landmarks in the region—the Church of Kish. This ancient church, believed to be built by the Caucasian Albanians (not to be confused with modern-day Albania), dates back to the 1st century AD. Surrounded by scenic mountain views, the church offers both historical and spiritual significance, and it has been converted into a museum showcasing the region’s religious history.
- Sheki Historic Centre The historic center of Sheki has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time. The old city is dotted with traditional houses, some of which are over 200 years old. The charming cobblestone streets, local craft shops, and friendly atmosphere make Sheki’s historic center a delightful place to explore on foot.
- Sheki Fortress Overlooking the city, the Sheki Fortress dates back to the 18th century and once protected the city from invaders. Today, the fortress walls offer visitors panoramic views of Sheki and the surrounding hills. Inside the fortress, there are several cultural exhibitions, including an archaeological museum showcasing artifacts from the region’s rich history.
- Gelekush Temple For those who enjoy hiking and nature, a trek to Gelekush Temple is a rewarding experience. Located in the mountains surrounding Sheki, this small, hidden temple is an ancient site of worship. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, and the temple itself adds an air of mystery to the journey.
What to Eat in Sheki
Sheki is not only a cultural hub but also a culinary destination, offering visitors a chance to sample some of Azerbaijan’s most unique and traditional dishes. The local cuisine in Sheki is rich in flavor, often incorporating nuts, spices, and fruit in its recipes. Here are some of the must-try dishes during your visit:
- Sheki Piti Sheki’s most famous dish is piti, a hearty lamb stew cooked slowly in a clay pot with chickpeas, chestnuts, saffron, and other spices. What sets Sheki’s piti apart from others is the method of preparation and serving. The dish is typically served in two stages: first, the broth is poured over pieces of bread to soak in the flavors, then the meat, chickpeas, and chestnuts are eaten afterward. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.
- Sheki Halva (Sheki Halvasi) Another culinary highlight of Sheki is its famous halva, a sweet treat that is completely different from the halva found in other parts of the world. Sheki halva is made with layers of rice flour dough, filled with crushed nuts, and soaked in a syrup made from sugar and saffron. It has a crispy texture on the outside and a sweet, nutty filling inside. It’s a must-try dessert when visiting the city and makes for a great gift to take home.
- Fəsəli Fəsəli is a traditional Azerbaijani pastry that resembles a layered, savory pancake. It is usually made with thin layers of dough filled with butter and sugar (or sometimes with herbs or minced meat) and is baked to perfection. It’s often served for breakfast or as a snack with a hot cup of tea.
- Dolma Dolma is a dish found across Azerbaijan, but Sheki has its own special version. This dish consists of grape leaves or cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, herbs, and spices. The filling is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. Served with yogurt on the side, dolma is a simple yet flavorful dish that reflects the culinary traditions of the region.
- Fresh Local Produce The fertile lands surrounding Sheki produce an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Depending on the season, you can enjoy fresh pomegranates, apricots, persimmons, and walnuts, which are often incorporated into local dishes or enjoyed on their own. If you visit during the harvest season, make sure to stop by one of the local markets to sample the fresh produce.
- Lavangi Lavangi is a dish that originated in northern Azerbaijan but is popular in Sheki as well. It consists of chicken or fish stuffed with walnuts, onions, and pomegranate paste, then baked to perfection. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a standout choice for any meal.
Conclusion
Sheki is a city where history, culture, and culinary traditions come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. From the breathtaking architecture of the Sheki Khan’s Palace to the rich flavors of piti and Sheki halva, every aspect of this city offers something unique and memorable. Whether you’re wandering through its historic streets or savoring its local dishes, Sheki will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Discovering Sheki: What to See and Eat in Azerbaijan’s Cultural Gem