Sheki

Sheki

Sheki is one of the most ancient cities that habituated people more than 2700 years in the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasian Mountains. Majority of architectural buildings that built between 16th -19th centuries were well preserved. For centuries Sheki was the center of silkworm breeding and silk production center and located on the silk road. Due to its very soft climate, the soil of this region is very good for different kinds of fruits and vegetables. The city is also very famous for its very rich cuisine and sweets not only among locals but tourists also. You can try a special Soup called “Piti” that cooked 8-9 hours, from night till morning with the significantly small amount of fire. You definitely should try sweets also like Baklava, Halva, Bamiyehs and many more.

Touristic Places to visit in Sheki:

• Sheki Khans Palace. The Palace itself built in 1762 as a summer residence for the Khan(King) of Sheki. During the construction of the building, no single nails and glues were used. From inside, all the walls of the Palace are full of paintings which each painting has its own physiological meaning. In the garden outside of the palace, you will discover 2 plane trees that both are 500 years old.

• Caravanserais (ancient hotels). There have 2 Caravanserais that are called Upper and Lower Caravanserais both dating back to 18th centuries. Due to the city’s location on the main trade road from the East to the West, Caravanserais were main resting and trading places of merchants who are passing from the city.

• Albanian Church. In the Kish Village of Sheki, you will visit an Albanian church that dates back to the 1st century AD. People of the North part of Azerbaijan were mainly Christians before Islam.

• House of Craftsmen – a place full of shops with handmade products made by Craftsmen.

• Sweet Shops

Sheki: A Jewel of Azerbaijani Culture

Sheki, located 370 km from Baku, is a city rich in history, culture, and traditional craftsmanship. Nestled in the southern foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is famous for its stunning architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Sheki Khan's Palace, adorned with intricate stained-glass windows and exquisite frescoes.

The city’s vibrant markets and workshops showcase local handicrafts, such as silk and embroidery. Sheki is also known for its delicious cuisine, particularly Sheki Halva, a sweet pastry unique to the region. With its blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and local charm, Sheki is a must-visit destination for those interested in Azerbaijani heritage.