Shaki to become architectural preserve
By Seymur Aliyev
The ancient city of Shaki in northwestern Azerbaijan will be declared an architectural preserve area by 2030, head of the Shaki tourism information center Nasib Imamaliyev told Trend news agency.
Imamaliyev said a map of Shaki with locations of interesting sights and booklets containing information about historical monuments of the city have been recently created for foreign tourists.
Shaki is located 305 km from the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku. Featuring a majestic landscape of beautiful flora and fauna framed by towering snow-capped peaks, it has a rich cultural and historical heritage.
According to historians, Shaki was founded almost 2,700 years ago and it has experienced ups and downs associated with repeated occupation by stronger nations and empires. Its long and tumultuous history has contributed to the creation of numerous archaeological and historical sites that can be found there today. It had been a major part of the Silk Road during the ancient times and one of its most famous destinations had been the beautiful Caravansarai, which was used as a "hotel" for traders. Today, it is still used as a hotel for modern travelers.
The place also boasts the great Silk Factory that has continuously produced silk products for over four centuries.
One of the highlights of any visit is an incredible Khansarai, which served as an exquisite summer palace for the Shaki Khans (rulers).
The landscape also features a plethora of parks and museums that showcase the relics of the city's heydays. With its nearly unspoiled nature, it functions as a recommended destination for hiking and camping adventures.