Overview
Shamakhi is one of Azerbaijan's oldest towns, serving as the capital of the Shamakhi Rayon in the Baku Region. The town preserves significant historical architecture including the 743-year-old Juma Mosque, royal mausoleums, and the ruins of Gulistan Fortress perched on a steep hill.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
History
Shamakhi is one of Azerbaijan's oldest towns, with the Juma Mosque dating to 743 AD, making it the oldest mosque in the Caucasus.
Language
Azerbaijani is the local language; Russian is still widely understood among older residents.
Safety
Hikers should wear good shoes when climbing to Gulistan Fortress due to thorns in June and potential snakes in spring and summer.
Transport
Şamaxı Avtovağzalı bus terminal connects Shamakhi to Baku (4 manat), Sheki (6 manat), and Qabala (4 manat). The town is walkable for most sights.