Shusha Fortress, Mountain fortress in Shusha, Azerbaijan.
Shusha Fortress is a fortified structure built from local stone and lime with multiple gates controlling entry into the settlement. The defensive walls follow the natural contours of the hilltop location.
Panah Ali Khan established the fortress in 1752 as a military stronghold for the Karabakh Khanate. Its elevated position provided strategic advantages for defending the territory from distant approaches.
The fortress served as a center for Azerbaijani music development, where musicians created and performed traditional mugham compositions that defined the region's artistic identity. This heritage shaped how the place was valued by local communities.
The fortress sits at high elevation in mountainous terrain, so sturdy footwear and water are essential for exploring. Walking through the site involves ascending and navigating uneven paths along the fortifications.
The structure was built from çay daşı, a special local stone used throughout the entire fortification for its strength and durability. This distinctive building material shaped how the fortress looked and withstood the passage of time.
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