Complete Travel Guide to Shamakhi, Azerbaijan

Shamakhi Shamakhi is a city in Azerbaijan and the administrative centre of the Shamakhi District. The city's estimated population as of 2010 was 31,704. It is famous for its traditional dancers, the Shamakhi Dancers, and also for perhaps giving its name to the Soumak rugs. Positioned at coordinates 40.63141°N, 48.64137°E, Shamakhi occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Shamakhi place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 709.0 meters above sea level, Shamakhi benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Shamakhi creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 39600 residents, Shamakhi maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Shamakhi represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Shamakhi reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Azerbaijan, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Shamakhi province, Shamakhi contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Azerbaijan's regional character. The role of Shamakhi in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Shamakhi discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Azerbaijan while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Shamakhi

History This article **wasimported from the _CIA World Factbook_** Please help rewrite it to comply with Wikipedia's Manual of Style _(Learn how and when to remove this message)_ 1683 illustration of Shamakhi by Engelbert Kaempfer (published 1734) Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum Shamakhi was in antiquity part of successive Persian empires and was first mentioned as _Kamachia_ by the ancient Greco-Roman Egyptian geographer Claudius Ptolemaeus in the 1st to 2nd century AD.

Roman influence in Shamakhi established foundational infrastructure and administrative systems that continued to shape the region for centuries Shamakhi was an important town during the Middle Ages and served as a capital of the Shirvanshah realm from the 8th to 15th centuries.

Shamakhi maintained economic and cultural relations with India and China in the 12th century, and the excavation of pottery containers prove that Shamakhi also had relations with the Central Asian cities at around the same time Copper coins found in Shamakhi during archaeological excavations, porcelain containers produced in China, caravanserais serving international trade, prove the role of ancient Shamakhi in the Silk Road.

The Catholic friar, missionary and explorer William of Rubruck passed through it on his return journey from the Mongol Great Khan's court In 1476 Venetian diplomat Giosafat Barbaro, while describing the city, stated: "This [Sammachi] is a good city; it has from four to five thousand houses, it produces silk, cotton as well as other things according to its tradition.

In 1500–1501, it was taken by the Safavid dynasty Following the conquest of the area by the first Safavid ruler Ismail I, he allowed the descendants of Farrukh Yassar to rule Shamakhi and the rest of Shirvan under Safavid suzerainty This lasted until 1538, when his son and successor, king Tahmasp I (r.

1524–1576), turned the territory into a full Safavid province and appointed its first Safavid governor From then on, Shamakhi functioned as the capital of the Shirvan province In 1562 Englishman Anthony Jenkinson described the city in the following terms: "This city is five days' walk on camels from the sea, now it has fallen a lot; it is predominantly populated by Armenians.

" According to Carmelite monks who visited the city in 1607, its population was made up of Persians and Armenians Armenians were actively engaged in trade In addition to ordinary taxes, the Armenian people paid tribute to other religions Adam Olearius, who visited Shamakhi in 1637, wrote: "Its inhabitants are in part Armenians and Georgians, who have their particular language; they would not understand each other if they did not use Turkish, which is common to all and very familiar, not only in Shirvan, but also everywhere in Persia".

The Ottoman traveller Evliya Çelebi visited the town in 1647 and described it as having > about 7,000 well built houses The Ottoman period significantly influenced the architectural and cultural development of Shamakhi, leaving lasting impacts on local traditions and urban planning.

forty > schools for boys, seven pleasant baths forty caravanserais the greatest > part of the inhabitants are Sunnis of the Hanefirites, who perform their > prayers secretly.

The historical trajectory of Shamakhi demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Shamakhi reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Shamakhi remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography #Seismicity The city is located in the most seismic area of the Caucasus and was hit by powerful earthquakes in 1191 and 1859, which was so destructive that the capital of Shirvan was transferred to Baku twice. In 1872, the earthquake triggered emigration to Baku, where oil production had started in industrial proportions. The 1667 earthquake is considered to have been the worst with a death toll of 80,000, with one-third of the city collapsed, according to the Persian merchants' reports. The last catastrophic earthquake was recorded in 1902, which destroyed the 10th-century Juma Mosque. Shamakhi is near the boundary of three plates. #Rivers Shamakhi is located in the central part of Shirvan, at an altitude of about 749 m (2,457 ft) above sea level, in a favorable geographical position. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Shamakhi, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. In the south of Shamakhi flows to Zongalavay, and in the east Pirsaatchay. The city is surrounded by Binasli, Gushhan from the north, Pirdiraki, and Maiden Tower- Georgia from north-west and Meysari Mountains from the west. The mountainous terrain surrounding Shamakhi creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. These mountains can be considered as the city's natural defense fortifications. The mountainous terrain surrounding Shamakhi creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. There are many springs that provide urban population and people of surrounding villages with drinking water because of located at the slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. The mountainous terrain surrounding Shamakhi creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. #Climate Shamakhi is a relatively humid city to its area, and has a Mediterranean climate (_Csa_). With a nice amount of precipitation throughout most of the year, and two relatively dry summer months. Climate data for Shamakhi Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 3. 3) Daily mean °C (°F) −0. 3) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −3. 5) Average precipitation mm (inches) 42 (1. 4) Average rainy days 8 10 12 8 9 6 3 3 5 9 8 7 88 Mean monthly sunshine hours 103. 3 Source: NOAA 1. "Shamakhy Outlook". _discoverazerbaijan. Archived from the original on 23 October 2013. Retrieved 11 November 2014. National Geophysical Data Center / World Data Service (NGDC/WDS): NCEI/WDS Global Significant Earthquake Database. NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. "Significant Earthqu.

The topographic characteristics of Shamakhi result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Shamakhi region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Shamakhi area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Shamakhi has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Shamakhi demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Shamakhi create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Shamakhi is a relatively humid city to its area, and has a Mediterranean climate (Csa). With a nice amount of precipitation throughout most of the year, and two relatively dry summer months. Rainfall patterns in Shamakhi determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. Climate data for Shamakhi Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 3. 3) Daily mean °C (°F) −0. 3) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −3. 5) Average precipitation mm (inches) 42 (1. Rainfall patterns in Shamakhi determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 4) Average rainy days 8 10 12 8 9 6 3 3 5 9 8 7 88 Mean monthly sunshine hours 103. 3 Source: NOAA 1. “Samaxi Climate Normals 1961–1990”. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (FTP). Retrieved 22 March 2015. (To view documents see Help:FTP).

The climatic regime of Shamakhi reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Shamakhi create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Shamakhi determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Shamakhi create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Shamakhi demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Shamakhi include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics #Ethnic groups From the 16th century up until the 18th century, Armenians in Shamakhi formed the majority of the population. The demographic composition of Shamakhi reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. According to the 1917 publication of Kavkazskiy kalendar , Shamakhi—then known as Shemakha—had a population of 27,732 in 1916, including 14,811 men and 12,941 women, 27,259 of whom were the permanent population and 493 were temporary residents. The demographic composition of Shamakhi reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Its ethnoreligious composition was as follows: Nationality Number % Shia Muslims 12,522 45. 12 Sunni Muslims 8,605 31. 01 Armenians 4,534 16. 34 Russians 1,737 6. 26 North Caucasians 214 0. 49 Other Europeans 4 0. 01 TOTAL 27,752 100. 00 The majority of the population is Azerbaijani, while Russians, Lezgins and Tats constitute other minorities. The demographic composition of Shamakhi reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. They speak the Azerbaijani language, Russian language, Lezgian language and Tat language respectively. Linguistic diversity in Shamakhi demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. [citation needed] #Religion Panoramic night view The Juma Mosque of Shamakhi is the biggest religious building in the city. Through its history the mosque has been demolished or destroyed few times, but each time it has been rebuilt, most recently in 2009. It is the oldest mosque in the territory of Azerbaijan, and was built in 743–744. It is second in age in the South Caucasus after Derbent Juma mosque (built in 734). The mosque was registered by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Azerbaijan as a historical and cultural monument of the country. The mosque was restored several times in the Middle Ages Century during the Shamakhi earthquake in 1856 and 1902 was destroyed. First reconstructed was done by Gasim Hajibababayov and later by Iosif Ploško. The last restoration work at the mosque was carried out in 2010–2013. Richard Hakluyt (1972). Voyages and Discoveries (2nd ed. London: Penguin Books Limited. ISBN 978-0-14-043073-8. “Shamaki, reckoned the capital of this province, stands on a river which falls into the Caspian sea, and is about sixty-six miles from Derbent towards the south, and ninety-two from Gangea to the south-east. This city was one of the best and most populous of Persia, before it was destroyed by an earthquake. It is, however, supposed to contain near 60,000 inhabitants, chiefly Armenians and strangers, whom the pleasantness of the country and traffic have invited thither” (An Universal History: From the Earliest Accounts to the Present Time, by George Sale, George Psalmanazar, Archibald Bower, George Shelvocke, John Campbell, John Swinton, vol. 43, London, 1765, p. Кавказский календарь на 1917 год [Caucasian calendar for 1917] (in Russian) (72nd ed. Tiflis: Tipografiya kantselyarii Ye. na Kavkaze, kazenny dom. Archived from the original on 4 November 2021. “Azərbaycan Prezidenti Şamaxı şəhərindəki Cümə məscidinin bərpası ilə əlaqədar tədbirlər haqqında sərəncam verib”. Archived from the original on 30 November 2016.

Culture Shamakhi Children’s Creative Centre In the 19th century the town became famous due Shamakhi dancers, the principal dancers of the entertainment groups, similarly to tawaifs. The city is home to Shirvan Domes, a 15th-century mausoleum and graveyard located at the foot of Gulistan Fortress. #Music and media One can trace the music scene in Shamakhi back to ancient times and to the villages of Baku, generally revered as the fountainhead of mugham in Azerbaijan. Ими восхищался Дюма by Emil Karimov and Mehpara Aliyeva. “Shamakhi Travel Guide - Tours, Attractions and Things To Do”. Retrieved 4 February 2022. “Tourism in Azerbaijan – Explore Azerbaijan and Cities”. Retrieved 4 February 2022. “Azerbaijani mugham’s history”. Archived from the original on 13 November 2014. Retrieved 13 November 2014.

The cultural landscape of Shamakhi represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Shamakhi reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Shamakhi continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Shamakhi provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Shamakhi demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Shamakhi provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy After the Decree "On measures to accelerate socio-economic development in the Republic of Azerbaijan", signed by Ilham Aliyev on 24 November 2003 and the "State Program on Socio-Economic Development of the Regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan" approved by the head of state, began to increase living standards in Shamakhi along with other regions. Thus, at Shamakhi carpet shop where were installed 40 pieces of machine tools, which belongs to "Star" LTD, weave carpets such as "Guba-Shirvan", "Nakhchivan", "Garabagh" and "Tabriz". In 2005, at the Shamakhi TV Production Plant built by "Star" LTD, "Star" branded 37, 54, 72, 74 "LCD", "Plasma", "CV" and digital "Receivers" are produced based on spare parts of Toshiba "VCD". "Star" LTD has invested $10 million in the construction of the AzSamand mini-car production plant. The building of the Historical-Ethnographic Museum named S. Shirvani was renovated and the bust of 12 great figures from the Shamakhi region was laid in the yard of the museum. Cite error: The named reference `:0` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ ""Evsen" Group of Companies || Official web site". "Iranian official visits Azerbaijan's Shamakhi city". Retrieved 13 November 2014.

The economic structure of Shamakhi reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Shamakhi often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Shamakhi serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Shamakhi demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Shamakhi has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Shamakhi focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Shamakhi reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Azerbaijan. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Shamakhi.

Regional connectivity from Shamakhi provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Shamakhi Humanitarian College * Şamaxı Humanitar Kolleci

Educational institutions in Shamakhi serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Shamakhi

Successful visits to Shamakhi require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Shamakhi often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Shamakhi include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Shamakhi extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.