Overview:

Shamkir Fortress in Shamkir, Azerbaijan, is a medieval fortress located in the city of Shamkir in northwestern Azerbaijan. Built in the 12th century, Shamkir Fortress was originally a fortification of the ruling Shirvanshah dynasty, and served as the capital of the Shirvanshahs until the 15th century. The strong walls of the fortress stand today as a reminder of the strength and pride of the powerful medieval Shirvanshah dynasty. The fortress is made up of a unique combination of both stone and brick buildings. The fortress complex includes residential, religious and military structures, and boasts numerous towers, dungeons, and a large courtyard area. The main entrance of the fortress is through a grand gate. The fortress is open to visitors, and offers insight into the period of Azerbaijan's history. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Azerbaijan
Prominent Features:

One of the most prominent features of Shamkir is the imposing fortress at the heart of the city. The fortress was built in the 12th century and is made of huge stone walls that have withstood the test of time. The fortress is located on a hilltop with incredible views of the city below. Inside the walls, there are several towers, gates, and inner courtyards. It is a fascinating place to explore and is home to historical artifacts, such as old coins, cannon shells, and old documents. The fortress is open for tours and a wonderful place to visit. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Azerbaijan.

History:

The Shamkir Fortress, located in Shamkir, Azerbaijan, is believed to have been built in the 13the century and was utilized as a major military facility during the 18th and 19th centuries. The fortress was initially built during the reign of the Shamkir Khanate, and the fortress at this time was a beylerbeyi or main garrison. During the Russian-Iranian War, the fortress played a major role in the Russian victory, as the garrison resisted the Iranian forces and helped the Russian forces secure their victory. In 1828, the fortress was used as an operational center during an attack on the Khanate of Derbent. During the 19th century, the fortress was usually the first point of attack for any forces attempting to gain access to Shamkir. In 1886, a major wall was built around the fortress as part of the Russian advances in the Caucasus region. The fortress was in the center of frequent battles and was abandoned after the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1918. During this time, large amounts of illegal weapons were discovered inside the walls of the fortress. In 2010, restoration work began to rehabilitate the fortress, and it was officially reopened as a museum and historic site in 2011. The facility was kept intact, and much of the original architecture is still intact. The fort is now also used as an observation deck, with the highest point offering a great view of the Shirvan Steppe. Since the restoration, the Shamkir Fortress has become one of the major tourist attractions in Azerbaijan. The fortress is open daily, and visitors are able to tour the inner portion of the fortress and learn more about its history. Tourists are also able to view the walls that remain and the canons, turrets, and towers that were part of the fort. It is a great opportunity to learn about the region's history and experience an intriguing piece of Azerbaijan's past. Visit one of the famous monuments of Azerbaijan with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Shamkir Fortress dates back to the 11-12th century and is believed to have been constructed during the rule of Rustam-ibn-Nablis Dulgedaev. 2. It is located on the site of an ancient settlement of the same name from the Middle Ages. 3. It is one of the oldest existing fortresses in the region and was the site of many historic battles during the Russo-Persian Wars and during World War II. 4. It is located on the southern slopes of the Samur-Shahab Dagh Mountains, approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Baku. 5. The fortress was the first line of defense against invading armies, and was armed with cannons and other weapons. 6. During World War II, the fortress was used as a watchtower and defense against the German advances. 7. A memorial plaque was installed in the fortress to honor those who died at the battle. 8. It is surrounded by the ruins of old castles, and a medieval cemetery can still be seen in the nearby fields. 9. The fortress is on the list of the 100 Tourist Sites of the Azerbaijan Republic. 10. The fortress is now a museum open to visitors from around the world. One of the historical monuments of Azerbaijan, it tells the story of a bygone era