Murad’s Gate, 16th-century eastern portal in Old City, Azerbaijan
Murad's Gate is an eastern portal within the Shirvanshahs Palace complex, featuring intricate masonry work and traditional architectural elements. The wide entrance and detailed decorations show the high level of craftsmanship from that era.
The gate was built in 1585 during Ottoman rule over Baku and commissioned by Sultan Murad III. Architect Amirshah Tabrizi designed this structure, which remains part of the palace complex today.
The Arabic inscription above the entrance shows Islamic influence and mentions Sultan Murad III and the construction date in traditional calligraphic style. This text tells the story of the people who used and valued the gate.
The gate is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Old City and is often accessible through guided tours. The best time to visit is in the morning, when crowds are smaller and the light better shows the details of the stonework.
The wide opening suggests the gate was meant to connect to additional structures that were never built. This made it an isolated architectural feature, unlike its original intended purpose.
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