Unveiling the Majestic Castles and Fortresses of the Land of Fire

Azerbaijan, a transcontinental country located at the boundary of Europe and Asia, is abundant in natural resources and possesses a captivating, multi-faceted history. Throughout the ages, this nation, known as the "Land of Fire," has attracted the attention and desire of legendary conquerors like Alexander the Great and Timur, as well as mighty empires including the Achaemenid, Roman, Ottoman, Safavid, and Tsarist Russia. Additionally, numerous local kingdoms and dynasties have vied for control over this sought-after land.

The influence of various peoples, cultures, and customs from throughout history can be seen in the culture, cuisine, folklore, and mindset of modern Azerbaijan. Additionally, the physical presence and power of these influences can be observed through the numerous castles, fortresses, and fortified towers that can be found throughout the country, ranging from city centers to remote mountain tops. Azerbaijan's strategic location as a crossroads for numerous trade routes, including the Great Silk Road, has contributed to this rich historical heritage.

The buildings left behind are a tangible reflection of our country's history, serving as silent witnesses to a multitude of events, both triumphant and tragic. Understanding historical events often entails being physically present at the location where they unfolded, immersing oneself in the atmosphere of that era, and mentally transcending time in a similar fashion to a time machine or an Oriental magic carpet.

Unfortunately, Azerbaijan's 20th-century history has resulted in this remarkable architectural legacy being largely unexplored. Many castles lay abandoned, with no excavation efforts undertaken due to the lack of interest in studying the history of the national republics during the Soviet era.

Old City of Baku

However, the term "unexplored" also implies untapped potential. These destinations present an opportunity for adventurous explorers to witness the rich history and diverse cultural heritage of the country, away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Take note of these 10 sites that should be added to your must-visit list.

You don't need to go far to witness the rich history of Azerbaijan. The center of Baku, its capital city, is a medieval citadel which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000. In this vibrant area, you will find narrow Oriental alleys and centuries-old houses, adorned with historic bathhouses, mosques, caravanserais, and palaces.

The iconic Maiden Tower, a symbol of Baku's ancient past, stands near the Caspian Sea, generating ongoing debates about its origins. Some historians speculate that it was a Zoroastrian fire temple from the fifth century, while others believe it was constructed along with the fortress walls in the 12th century.

Quadrangular Mardakan Castle

Located north of Baku, the Absheron Peninsula is home to a multitude of small castles that dot its landscape and extend into the Caspian Sea. During the medieval period, these castles served as a cohesive defensive system, safeguarding important trade routes and defending the coastline against potential invasions. According to legend, these forts were interconnected by a network of underground tunnels. Among the exceptionally well-preserved castles is the Mardakan fortress, constructed by Akhsitan I, a ruler from the Shirvanshah dynasty, in the late 12th century. This quadrangular stronghold features a courtyard and an impressive 72-foot tower.

Chirag Gala

These fragments of a tower and wall in the northeastern Shabran region are believed to be part of the oldest castle included in this list. It is said to have originated in the sixth century during the Sassanid Persia era. Accessible only by foot, visitors must embark on a challenging trek to reach the castle's breathtaking location atop a rugged cliff. In return for their efforts, they are greeted with awe-inspiring panoramic views of both land and sea.

Sheki Fortress

Chirag, known as the "Lamp Castle" in Azerbaijani, is said to have served as an observation post along the Gilgilchay Wall. This formidable defense system was built to deter invasions from nomadic tribes like the Huns through the Caspian coastline and Caucasus mountain passes. The name "Lamp Castle" pays homage to the fires that were kindled here as cautionary signals.

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Sheki: Azerbaijan's Silk Road city

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This expansive fortress at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains forms an integral part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Center of Sheki. Constructed during the mid-18th century, it served as the administrative headquarters of the Sheki Khanate (1743-1819) and encompassed about 40 buildings, along with fountains and gardens. The sole surviving structure is the Sheki Khans Palace - a remarkable architectural marvel that was constructed without the use of glue or nails. It features exquisite Persian miniature frescoes and vibrant, multi-colored windows adorned with Venetian glass, which might have been transported here along the Silk Road.

Sumug Tower

This impressive tower, crafted with a combination of stone and brick, proudly stands at the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains near the picturesque north-western village of Ilisu. It serves as a reminder of a bygone era spanning nearly 300 years when Ilisu thrived as the capital of its own small sultanate, until Russian domination brought it to an end in 1844. The tower's origins date back to the 17th or 18th centuries, although its builders and precise purpose remain shrouded in mystery. Presently, it accommodates a modest museum dedicated to the Ilisu Sultanate and is renowned for its appearance in the 1981 Soviet comedy film "Dont Worry, Im With You."

Zaqatala Fortress

Dominating the city center of Zaqatala stands an imposing fortress constructed in 1830 under the request of Russian general Ivan Paskevich. This fortress played a vital role in enabling Tsarist Russia to maintain control over northwest Azerbaijan and thwart attacks by local mountaineers who remained loyal to the legendary resistance leader Imam Shamil during the Murid War of 1829-1859. In the aftermath of the unsuccessful Russian Revolution of 1905, it was converted into a prison where several mutineers from the renowned battleship Potemkin, later immortalized in Sergei Einsteins 1925 silent film of the same name, were held captive. The Tsarist era is evident within its walls, with various structures and cast iron cannons still preserved.

Maiden Tower, Gadabay

One of the highlights of hiking through the western Azerbaijan Lesser Caucasus mountains involves the discovery of these enigmatic ruins of a castle perched atop a mountain, commanding breathtaking views of the Shamkirchay river. Accessible only via a steep footpath, these ruins surprise adventurers with their majestic charm. The central tower, constructed from bricks, most likely dates back to the 12th century. Although its history remains elusive, some historians propose a connection to the formidable Eldiguzid dynasty of that era. Others speculate that it might possess an even more ancient origin.

Shusha Fortress

In the remarkable city of Shusha, situated in the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is slated for official dissolution in 2024, there lies a place of immense cultural and historical significance. This city blossomed around a fortress that was constructed in the 1750s by Panah Ali Khan, the esteemed founder of the Karabakh Khanate (1748-1822). In an era when Russia and Persia were locked in a struggle for supremacy over the Caucasus region, the khanate strategically positioned its central stronghold on a lofty 5,000-foot mountain plateau, ensconced by nearly impenetrable cliffs on three sides. Crafted from local limestone, the fortress boasts an expansive wall stretching 1.5 miles, fortified with three grand gates and an array of circular guard towers. It etches its place in history as it valiantly repelled an invasion by the Persian Shah, Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar, in 1795.

Alinja Castle

The mesmerizing setting of this renowned fortress, situated atop Mount Alinja in the heart of Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan's autonomous republic bordered by Armenia, Iran, and Turkey, has drawn comparisons to Peru's renowned Machu Picchu. Its rich, intricate history includes the astonishing siege of Alinja by the Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur (or Tamerlane) from 1387 to 1401, where he achieved victory after a grueling 14-year struggle. Though the present-day castle is a modern reconstruction built over the original ruins, this does somewhat diminish the historical ambiance. Nonetheless, scaling the 2,000 steps up the mountainside is well worth it for the awe-inspiring views alone.

Zindan Tower

Zindan Tower: As a young revolutionary at the start of the 20th century, Joseph Stalin was purportedly held prisoner at Zindan Tower in the Azerbaijani city of Lankaran.

Kamilla Rzayeva

Escape by sea: Legend has it that Stalin escaped the prison by a secret underground tunnel to Lankaran Lighthouse, where he made off via the Caspian Sea.

Kamilla Rzayeva

Abandoned: The tower has fallen into disrepair and is no longer open to the public,.

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Tea culture: Azerbaijani tea culture originated in Lankaran and the hospitable locals will often welcome visitors with a refreshing glass.

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Yanar Bulag: Yanar Bulag, meaning "burning spring" is a natural spring which percolates methane gas.

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Water that burns: When ignited, the fire will burn for five to 10 seconds.

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Entirely drinkable: Despite its unusual properties, the water is safe to drink.

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Rest stop: Watermelons are kept cool in the base of the fountain.

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Hirkan National Park: Home to endangered Persian leopards, Hirkin National Park is a great place for hiking and cooling off.

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Ironwood trees: Hirkan National Park's famous ironwood trees are believed to have survived the last Ice Age.

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The lovely Lankaran district of Azerbaijan

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Finally, situated in the south-eastern region of the country, stands a compact cylindrical edifice that originally served as a tower within the Lankaran Fortress. This fortress held significant importance as the heart of the Talysh Khanate from 1747 until 1828, when it fell during a violent yet triumphant Russian siege. Though the fortress was eventually reduced to ruins, the Zindan, an integral part of the structure, withstood the test of time and continued to operate as a prison for numerous years. Local folklore recounts a captivating tale of Joseph Stalin briefly being incarcerated here at the dawn of the 20th century, only to stage a daring escape through an underground tunnel.