Shahbulag Castle, 18th-century fortress in Aghdam District, Azerbaijan
Shahbulag Castle is a fortress built in the 18th century in Aghdam District with rectangular stone walls and corner towers. Inside the complex stands a mosque featuring a square domed prayer chamber, showing how military and religious structures shared the same fortified space.
Panah Ali Khan built the fortress in 1752 while establishing the Karabakh Khanate following major political changes in the region after Nader Shah's death. The stronghold became a center of authority for the newly formed khanate as it took shape.
The fortress served as a defensive stronghold for the khanate, and its layout shows how rulers organized military control over the surrounding plains. The remains today still suggest the scale of power that once centered on this location.
The site sits along the Stepanakert-Askeran-Martakert Highway with connections to the nearby Tigranakert Museum area. Basic supplies and amenities in the region require advance planning since facilities are sparse around the ruins.
The name comes from a natural spring near the Khachinchay River, with Shahbulag meaning 'Spring of the Shah' in the local language. This water source was crucial to why the fortress was established at this particular location.
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