Contact UsBest Places to Visit in Sheki Azerbaijan
Sheki is one of the most beautiful and ancient towns of Azerbaijan, which is situated at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Renowned for its marvelous architecture, historical significance, and cultural life, Sheki is an undiscovered gem, indeed. Being one of the most important stations of the great Silk Road, the town offers numerous sights connected with its history and wealth. Sightseeing in Sheki is a blend of the old and the beautiful, including the palaces and bazaars that make Ideal Places to Visit in Sheki.
Another peculiar feature of Sheki is that it has many beautiful buildings. It also has some historical centers like Sheki Khan’s Palace that has stained glass and other beautiful interior works. Walking through Sheki’s Old Town, which is enlisted as the UNESCO World Heritage site, you will feel as if you were transported back in time as caravanserais, houses, and even the narrow streets of cobblestones recall the history of the town as a trading hub. The sights and attractions of Sheki are designed to demonstrate the cultural interchange between Azerbaijan and other countries.
Incorporating Sheki in your Azerbaijan Tour itinerary ensures that you get a taste of the local culture and way of life. The town has something for everyone, starting with the Albanian Church of Kish and ending with the Sheki Bazaar, where you can taste Azerbaijani sweets and buy souvenirs. For those who want to enjoy the beautiful nature of Azerbaijan, it is also possible to start the tour of the Caucasus Mountains in Sheki, which will be interesting for fans of hiking and tourism. No matter if one has a historical, cultural or geographical interest, Sheki is a must-visit place during a tour of Azerbaijan.
Specialty of Sheki
The main focus of Sheki is history, architecture and nature which makes it different from other places of Azerbaijan. The town is well-known for the well-preserved Sheki Khan’s Palace, which is a reflection of the architectural achievements of Azerbaijan in the 18th century. The town also has a bonus of being a gateway to the Caucasus with stunning views and opportunities for hiking. The wooden framed houses and caravanserais of Sheki’s Old Town emphasize the town’s role in the history of the Silk Road trade. Adding Sheki to your Azerbaijan tour schedule will allow you to explore one of the most historical and culturally rich areas of Azerbaijan.
Best Time to Visit Sheki
It is recommended that visitors should consider visiting Sheki during the spring season, which is from April to June, and the autumn season, which is from September to October. These are the best months to visit the country as the weather is moderate and perfect for touring and other outdoor activities. Spring is the time when flowers bloom and trees are green and in autumn there is beautiful colors of fall, therefore the nature around Sheki is even more beautiful. Summer is relatively hot, but not extremely so, while winter is cold and snowy, which may be an advantage if you like seeing mountains covered in snow.
Here is the Best Places to Visit in Sheki Azerbaijan
1. Sheki Khan’s Palace
Sheki Khan’s Palace is one of the most attractive sights among all the places to visit in Sheki. This beautiful building was constructed in 1762 and was the home of the Sheki khans; it remains a symbol of the town’s history today. Among the main attractions, one can visit the stained glass windows, murals, and the palace gardens. The construction has two stories and the walls and ceiling have geometric designs and motifs that are characteristic of Azerbaijani art. This palace should not be left out in your Azerbaijan tour package because it gives you a feel of the royal lifestyle and the art during that period.
2. Sheki Old Town
One more place that you should not miss during your tour in Azerbaijan is the Old city of Sheki which is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It has stone paved roads and houses with red tiled roofs, and the ancient caravanserais that are centuries old. While strolling through Sheki Old Town, you will come across many beautiful spots, such as shops with local products like crafts and textiles. The old caravanserais which were used by the traders along the Silk Road have now been turned into inns and cultural places and thus one can feel the commercial activity of the town. Visiting the Old Town is one of the most effective ways to get acquainted with the history and culture of Sheki.
3. Albanian Church of Kish
There is an old church, the Albanian Church of Kish, that is situated in the nearby area of Sheki’s central part. It was established in the 1st century and is one of the oldest churches in the Caucasus. The places to see in Sheki wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this unique structure, which served as the major religious site for the ancient Caucasian Albanians. Sited at the foothills of great mountains, the church offers tranquility to the visitors and is a major tourist attraction site. Ensure to include it in your Azerbaijan Tour itinerary when planning to tour one of the most holy sites in the region.
4. Sheki Bazaar
For instance, if the cultural aspect of the local people interests you, then Sheki Bazaar should not be missed. This living bazaar offers a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, Azerbaijani souvenirs, and sweets like Sheki halva. The Sheki Bazaar is a good place to get to know the people and the hospitality of Azerbaijan and buy some souvenirs. The market is one of the most lively and captivating sites to visit in Sheki and really makes your Azerbaijan tour very colorful.
5. Sheki Caravanserai
The Sheki Caravanserai is one of the most important historical sites in the town of Sheki. It became a place of refreshment for the caravans of Silk Road merchants crossing through the area. Today, it is one of the best preserved structures that gives a glimpse of Sheki as one of the most important trade centers. It is possible to spend a night at the Sheki Caravanserai which has been recently restored and turned into a hotel, which will give you an idea of what the town is like. For those who wish to taste the genuine hospitality of Azerbaijan, this place should be included in every Azerbaijan tour package.
6. Gelersen-Gorersen Fortress
For those who like to explore, the Gelersen-Gorersen Fortress is just the place for them. This is a medieval fortress located on the mountaintop and providing a view of the Kish River; this is among the best sites to visit in Sheki. Although not as crowded as some of the other sites, it provides spectacular views and a quiet environment, which makes it perfect for hiking and photography. The fact that the fortress is located in a rather secluded area contributes to its appeal, and it is highly recommended to include it in any tour of Azerbaijan.
Conclusion:
Sheki is an enchanting place that is historically rich, culturally diverse and has stunning scenery that makes it an ideal place to visit in Azerbaijan. The Sheki Khan’s Palace and the Old Town are the most popular places to visit in Sheki that give a great insight into the history of the country. Regardless of whether one’s interest is in ancient churches, crowded markets, or mountain fortresses, Sheki has something to offer to every traveler.
Including Sheki into your Azerbaijan tour package guarantees an interesting and diverse tour across the most significant historical and cultural landmarks of Azerbaijan. The town boasts of beautiful and calm natural environment and a rich local culture that makes it ideal for both leisure and discovery. If you are looking for a genuine Azerbaijani experience Sheki has to be a must do stop on any Azerbaijan tour.
Read More: