Shamakhi

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The ancient town Shamakhi is situated at 800 m. over the sea level height on the southern slopes of the Major Caucasus. Founded in the 6th century A.D., the city became the capital of the rulers of the influential and powerful principality of Shirvan. Despite the numerous earthquakes - one of the most dramatic took place in Pirguli in 1902, many important historical monuments has remained intact, such as the Juma ("Friday") - mosque which dates from the 10th century, the Yeddi Gumbez ("Seven Domes") the mausoleum built in 1402, and the ruins of the fortress of Gulistan which goes back to the 11th and the 12th century. For a long time, Shamakhi was one of the most important stop-overs on the Silk Road. It was also been the birthplace of a considerable number of Azeri poets, philosophers, architects and scientists such as: Khagani (12th century), Nasimi (14th century) and Sabir (1862-1911) and etc.

You will hear about this ancient Azerbaijanian town if you will visit the astrological observatory Pirkuly and carpet manufacturing factory.

Not far from Shamakhi there are the ruins of the ancient town Shehergah and the sepulchre Shergah (Place of Evil Spirits).

Lunch is inclusive.

The natural environment of the Shamakhi district is rich of forests and meadows and has a mild and pleasant climate. Its population is mainly employed in the wine industry - both domestic and industrial, cattle breeding, diary fruit and vegetable growing, processing and rug weaving. The most important agricultural and agroindustrial center of the region is the town Ismayilli, whereas the main centre for articraft such as copper, leather and carpetry is the village Lahij which is sitkated up in the mountains

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Azerbaijan Tourism