Icherisheher
Azerbaijan
Icherisheher, also known as the Old City, is the historic heart of Baku, Azerbaijan. It is a walled city that has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era and reflects layers of cultural influences including Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvanshah, Ottoman, and Russian civilizations. The fortress walls, dating back to the 12th century, still stand prominently, enclosing notable monuments such as the 12th-century Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Shirvanshahs' Palace. This area served as the capital of the Baku Khanate from 1748 to 1806 and has witnessed significant historical developments, including restoration efforts during the Soviet period. In 1977, Icherisheher was designated a historical-architectural reserve and later inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000. Today, the Administration of the State Historical-Architectural Reserve "Icherisheher" oversees its protection, restoration, and promotion as an international tourism center, ensuring the preservation of its architectural heritage and cultural significance.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore Icherisheher during the cooler months to avoid the summer heat and to purchase tickets for guided tours in advance, as the site can be busy. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer better lighting for photography and a more peaceful experience. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven historic pavements.
Faits intéressants
- •The Maiden Tower, a key landmark in Icherisheher, dates back to the 12th century and its exact original purpose remains a subject of scholarly debate.
- •Icherisheher contains architectural and cultural influences from multiple civilizations, including Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvanshah, Ottoman, and Russian.
- •The Old City served as the capital of the Baku Khanate from 1748 until Russian occupation in 1806.
- •The fortress walls of Icherisheher were restored during Soviet rule between 1952 and 1957.
- •In 2000, the Shirvanshahs' Palace and Maiden Tower within Icherisheher were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Histoire
Icherisheher's history dates back to the Paleolithic period, with archaeological evidence showing a populated and thriving crafts and trade center by the 8th and 9th centuries.
The city gained prominence when the Shirvanshahs moved their residence there in the 15th century, marking a period of significant development.
From 1748 to 1806, it was the capital of the Baku Khanate.
Following Russian occupation in 1806 and the oil boom of the late 19th century, the city expanded beyond its walls.
Restoration of the fortress walls occurred during Soviet rule in the 1950s.
The Old City was officially recognized as a historical-architectural reserve in 1977 and declared a State Historical-Architectural Reserve in 1985.
Recent efforts have focused on its preservation and integration into the tourism infrastructure of Baku.
Guide du lieu
Maiden Tower12th century
A monumental 12th-century tower whose purpose ranges from defense to astronomical observatory. It is an iconic symbol of Baku and features a museum inside detailing its history and legends.
Shirvanshahs' Palace15th century
A 15th-century palace complex that served as the residence of the Shirvanshah dynasty. It includes a main palace, a mosque, a mausoleum, and other structures, showcasing exquisite medieval Azerbaijani architecture.
Fortress Walls12th century
The defensive walls date back to the 12th century and enclose the Old City. They were restored in the mid-20th century and remain a prominent feature of Icherisheher’s historic landscape.