Sabayil Castle, Medieval castle on Caspian Sea coast in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Description
Sabayil Castle is a medieval fortress standing along the Caspian Sea coast near Baku with thick defensive walls punctuated by towers of varying shapes. Today its remains are partially submerged, visible from the shoreline where visitors can observe the weathered stone structure.
History
The fortress was built in 1234 under King Fariburz III to defend Baku Bay from naval attacks. A powerful earthquake in the 14th century combined with rising Caspian Sea waters eventually led to the structure being partially submerged.
Culture
Stone inscriptions on the fortress walls display Arabic and Persian script, showing how different peoples shaped life in medieval Baku.
Practical
The best vantage point to view the ruins is from Baku's waterfront promenade where you can see the partially submerged structure clearly. Additional artifacts and information about the site are available at Shirvanshah Palace in the Old Town.
Did you know?
The fortress became known locally as the Atlantis of the Caspian Sea because natural forces caused it to vanish beneath the waves. This poetic comparison highlights how the coastline has transformed dramatically over centuries of geological shifts.
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