The Palace of the Shirvanshahs: History and Facts

By Mabel Collins | Update on: Nov 20, 2024

Nestled in the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a monumental architectural gem that stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Shirvan Empire. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the historical buildings that you should visit when coming to Baku. This place is a symbol of Azerbaijan's rich cultural and architectural heritage. In the 15th century, the palace represented the royal lifestyle during the Shirvanshah dynasty, which ruled the region for centuries.

Table of Contents

Prepare for Your Travel to Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Architecture and Design
Conclusion

Prepare for your travel to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Get ready to explore one of Baku's most iconic landmarks by learning essential tips, travel advice, and what to expect during your visit to this historical treasure.

Some Palace of the Shirvanshahs facts

Built-in the 15th century during the reign of the Shirvanshah dynasty.
Located in Baku, Azerbaijan, within the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher).
The complex includes several structures: the main palace, Divankhana, mausoleum, mosque, bathhouse, and a reservoir.
Built by Shirvanshah Khalilullah I after moving the capital from Shamakhi to Baku.
Divankhana, an octagonal pavilion, likely served for royal receptions and judicial meetings.
The mausoleum of Shirvanshah Khalilullah I holds the tombs of the Shirvanshah family.
The palace mosque features a single minaret and a geometric mihrab.
The bathhouse (hammam) was used for royal relaxation and socialization.
Constructed using local limestone, giving the palace a distinctive golden hue.
The palace represents a blend of Azerbaijani, Persian, and Islamic architecture.
Declared a museum reserve in 1964 and restored in the 20th century.
Added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.
The palace offers panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and the surrounding Old City.

Palace of The Shirvanshahs History

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs was built in the era of the Shirvanshahs dynasty, which was in power in certain parts of contemporary Azerbaijan from the 9th to the 16th centuries. The Shirvanshahs were a Persianized Muslim dynasty that managed to maintain their autonomy while often being vassals to larger empires, such as the Safavids. Their time as monarchs is known for their participation in the cultural, political, and architectural changes.

In the early 15th century, Shirvanshah Khalilullah I moved his capital from Shamakhi to Baku following a devastating earthquake. This started the construction of the palace, which was later the power center of the Shirvan Empire. The Shirvanshah dynasty fell to the Safavids in the 16th century; however, the fact remains that their palace is one of the most important historical sites in Azerbaijan today.

Palace of The Shirvanshahs

Palace of the Shirvanshahs tickets

To visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs in Baku, Azerbaijan, here are the general details about tickets:

Standard ticket price: Approximately 10 AZN (Azerbaijani Manat) for adults.
Discounted tickets: Reduced prices for students, children, and seniors; typically around 2 - 5 AZN.

Opening hours: Usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, but it's best to check before visiting as hours may vary.

Getting to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Taking public transportation is the most convenient way to get to Shirvanshahs' Palace; the Red Line metro stops at Icheri Sheher, which is a short stroll from the palace. Alternatively, Icheri Sheher Street, which is just eight minutes away, is the stop for buses 6, 18, 53, 65, and 205. Icheri Sheher offers parking as well.

Architecture and design

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a unique blend of Azerbaijani, Persian, and Islamic architecture that you can not find anywhere else in Baku. It reflects the wealth and taste of the Shirvanshah rulers while adhering to the aesthetic norms of the Islamic world at the time. The main palace, a mosque, a mausoleum, a baths, and a reservoir are among the many interconnecting structures that make up the more than one-hectare-long royal complex.

The Main Palace

The main structure of the palace is an elegant, two-story building with a refined yet restrained design. Because it is built of local limestone, it has a warm, golden color, especially in the sunlight. The structure of the palace is based on a sequence of halls and apartments, many of which served as the Shirvanshah family's living quarters and place for royal meetings.

The elaborate stone carvings on the main palace, especially those surrounding the doors and windows, are among its most remarkable characteristics. The traditional art of Islamic culture that lay within the curve of the geometric and floral themes was manifested through these carvings. The palace is known for its two inner courtyards, which were a refuge from the summer heat and at the same time an active ventilation system.

The main palace

The Divankhana

One of the most iconic structures within the palace complex is the Divankhana, a small octagonal pavilion with a central hall that was likely used for royal receptions and important state meetings. Its location within a separate courtyard suggests that it held a special significance, possibly as the site of royal ceremonies or judicial proceedings.

The Divankhana is a beautifully proportioned dome and delicate stone latticework. The building is encompassed by an arcade of pointed arches, making it look spacious and light even if it is quite small.

The Mausoleum of Shirvanshah Khalilullah I

Adjacent to the Divankhana is the Mausoleum of Shirvanshah Khalilullah I, where the king and his family are interred. This simple yet elegant structure is marked by a pointed dome and a modest facade, in line with Islamic traditions of humility in death. Inside the mausoleum, the tombs are unadorned, though the spiritual significance of the space is palpable.

The Mausoleum of Shirvanshah Khalilullah I

The Palace Mosque and Minaret

Another important part of the complex is the palace mosque, which was built in the mid-15th century and served as a place of worship for the royal family. The mosque is a relatively modest structure, with a single minaret rising above it. The minaret's cylindrical shape and the simplicity of its design are characteristic of Azerbaijani mosque architecture from the period. Inside the mosque, the mihrab—a niche indicating the direction of Mecca—is decorated with geometric patterns, and the overall atmosphere is one of quiet reverence.

The Bathhouse

Like many royal complexes of the time, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs also includes a bathhouse (hammam). There were 26 dome-covered rooms in the bathroom, with windows for the required consecration in each. The two major rooms of the full bath are already split into smaller rooms by pylon barriers.

Warm air from the inner chambers, known as "ichery," heated the outer rooms, which were called "chel" in the local vernacular and used as changing rooms. The latter were swimming-pool-sized tanks filled with both hot and cold water. Hardened oil was used to heat the bath, and steam was introduced through tubes beneath the floors. Because Bath was just halfway above the earth, it remained cool on hot days and kept warm during the winter.

The Bathhouse

The Reservoir

The palace complex also included a large reservoir, which was essential for providing water to the inhabitants. The reservoir showcases the engineering skills of the time, as water was a precious resource in the arid climate of Baku. Its presence underlines the importance of self-sufficiency in royal complexes like this one.

Conclusion

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a must-see destination in Baku, providing visitors with the opportunity to discover its inner yards, detailed design, and importance in history. As a major landmark in Azerbaijan, it attracts people who are interested in history and architecture. With our visa help, you can smoothly organize your visit to this cultural gem without any trouble, ensuring your trip is smooth and memorable.

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