Shusha State Historical and Architectural Reserve

Shusha State Historical and Architectural Reserve is a protected site in a mountainous region containing buildings from different periods. The reserve includes residential houses, places of worship, and defensive structures that together show the area's architectural heritage.

The town developed as a center for trade and crafts due to its location on an important route, gaining importance over time. Official protection as a reserve came in 1977 to preserve these historical structures.

The buildings display characteristics of the Arran Architectural School, with stone walls, flat roofs, and narrow streets that reflect local construction methods. These building techniques were passed down through generations and still shape how the town looks today.

The site spreads across hilly terrain with many paths and steps between buildings. Sturdy footwear is important since paths are uneven and sometimes steep.

The city's fortress walls are skillfully integrated into the mountainside and use natural rock formations as part of the defense system. This blending of nature and construction shows careful planning from the 18th century.