Top Places To Visit in Sheki
Sheki is one of Azerbaijan’s beautiful towns which is snoozing among green pillows of forested Great Caucasus Mountains. This is a small city, located in Sheki- Zagatala region of Azerbaijan on the southern picturesque slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains range about 325 km away from Baku and not far from the Georgian border. Being the most popular tourist destination in Azerbaijan, Sheki has a population of about 63,000 people. The city has a rich history of the real atmosphere of authentic Azerbaijani town can be discovered here. Despite the many historical and architectural attractions, tourists here also enjoy strolling along the narrow streets with tiny houses famous for their red tile and carved wooden gates. Almost every house is surrounded by a garden and a fence made of river stones. The etymology of the town’s name is derived from the ancient tribe named “sakas” which inhabited Azerbaijan 6-7 age BC. Below is the list of the top places to visit in Sheki:
1. Sheki Khan’s Palace
The majestic Palace of Sheki Khan’s, located in the city fortress, takes a special place with its magnificent wall paintings and colorful windows’ mosaic. The Palace of Sheki Khan’s is a rare example of a combination of folk architecture (wood engraving) with the traditions of Oriental palace architecture (varnished and wall paintings). The facade of the palace is richly painted with drawings displaying scenes of hunting and war, as well as intricate geometrical and plant patterns.
2. Upper & Lower Caravanserai
“Caravanserai” historical complex in Sheki is two magnificent caravanserais which reached present days and traditionally named “Yukhary” and “Ashaghy” caravanserai, which means “Upper” and “Lower” Caravanserai in translation from Azerbaijani into English. Construction of these caravanserais is dated back to the 18th-19th century AD.
3. Old Albanian Temple In Kish Village
The church in the village of Kish derived to (2nd-4th centuries) built by St. Elias and considered one of the earliest Christian constructions on the Caucasus region. Presently, the church is being reсonstructured and reorganized into a museum. In the town, you’ll see old brick houses, shaded streets, weeping willow trees and canals carrying spring water.
4. Markhal Forest
Markhal forest is considered one of the beautiful places the travelers visit in Sheki. This forest covers a big area and contains a 5 stars hotel Markhal Resort & Spa in its area. This place is perfect for enjoying nature and visited a lot in the summertime.
