a window to the past
Baku has enriched the lives of locals and travelers for generations. With a history that spans millennia, the city has modernized and in doing so has attracted a new wave of visitors from across the globe.
But one icon of Baku remains unchanged, withstanding the test of time to offer visitors an unparalleled window into the past – the Old Town.
Known affectionately as Icheri Sheher, the enchanting Old Town is nestled in the heart of Baku, encircled by fortress walls and labyrinthine alleys. Designated as a UNESCO heritage site in 2000, Baku’s Old Town remains one of the finest examples of an authentic ancient city in the world.
“The magnificence of Icheri Sheher lies in the combination of its distinct architectural monuments…which reflect its long history and the melding of cultures,” said UNESCO at the time of designation. “Icheri Sheher is still a living, vibrant city.”
And over 20 years later, visitors who step through the citadel gates are still being transported to a world gone by. The imposing Maiden Tower, which has stood tall for centuries, offers sweeping panoramic views of the city. As you climb the tower, interactive activities and exhibits appear on each of the ascending floors, allowing visitors to delve into its rich history.
Meanwhile, the opulent 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs not only showcases the indulgent lives of the dynasty's imperial past but also includes a mosque, mausoleum, hamam, divankhana, and a reservoir, offering a comprehensive experience for history enthusiasts. Then, as dusk settles, the Old Town bursts open with the sound of traditional music from the Baku Marionette Theater, which stages operas by the acclaimed Uzeyir Hajibeyli.
Old Town Baku is unlike any other destination in Europe or Western Asia. With multiple historical cultures all converging, Baku’s old town is a prime example of how history can still breathe life into the veins of a modern city.
