Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Medieval palace complex in Old City, Azerbaijan
The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a medieval complex of connected buildings that includes a main residence, mosque, burial chambers, and bath house built from limestone. The construction features decorative stonework and internal passages linking the different sections into a unified whole.
The complex became the home of Shirvan rulers in the early 15th century after they relocated from their previous capital. It served as a seat of power for generations until the region's political situation changed.
The complex shows how rulers and their households lived during medieval times, with spaces designed for ceremonies and daily religious life. The arrangement of different buildings reveals the social order and values that shaped daily routines in the palace.
All areas of the complex are open to visitors, allowing you to walk through the various rooms and courtyards at your own pace. Exploring on foot helps you understand how the different sections connect and relate to each other.
The underground water system reveals how rulers centuries ago collected and stored spring water without modern technology, providing essential supply in an arid environment. This hidden infrastructure was key to sustaining the household's daily needs.
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