Once an important stop on the Silk Road, Shaki is a centuries-old city in northwestern Azerbaijan. It is backed by the rugged peaks of the Greater Caucasus mountain range and centres around a historic core that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique architecture.
Things to do in Sheki
Built in 1763 as a residence for Shaki’s ruling family is the Summer Palace, a magnificent landmark that stands atop a small hill overlooking the city. It is exquisitely decorated, inside and out, with impressive plasterwork and Islamic-inspired motifs adorning its facade. A highlight of the interior are the wooden-framed stained glass windows.
Occupying the rounded Three Saints Church is the tiny Museum of Folk and Applied Arts, where you’ll find textiles, pottery and jewellery dating back to the 18th century. Admire the gorgeous silk embroideries on display and see a gun that was used during a local rebellion against a powerful Persian shah. In the museum store, you can purchase locally made scarves, bags and handicrafts.
Also known as Shakikhanov’s Palace is the Winter Palace, which lies just outside the fortress walls of the Summer Palace. While its facade is relatively austere, the interior is beautifully decorated with shebeke glass, painted doors and murals. Nearby is a house museum dedicated to the beloved Azerbaijani writer Sabit Rahmanthe Yurd, as well as the Yaddashi Miniature Museum where you can see model recreations of Shaki’s most prominent architectural landmarks.
Getting around Sheki
Shaki is just over two hours’ drive from Ganja International Airport, which has regular flights to Moscow, St. Petersburg and Istanbul. Overnight trains connect Baku with the Shaki railway station and buses travel throughout the city. Taxis are readily available for getting around.