Not surprisingly, the name of Shaki is associated with food for many people – Shaki Halvasi, Shaki Pitisi and etc. But this ancient city that once hosted Shaki Khans have much more to offer. Start exploring Shaki from the Palace of Shaki Khans, an architectural miracle of which beautiful details will invite you for a spiritual travel to past!
Places of Interest
Shaki Khan Palace is a sample of amazing Azerbaijani architecture, that was built in 1797 with the order of Muhammad Hasan Khan. Being the patron of art and poetry of his period, Muhammad Hasan Khan did not only order for a palace, yet a piece of art to be created. With two plane trees in the yard of the Palace of Shaki Khans, that symbolize wisdom, eternity and greatness, this summer residence that is the only surviving part of inside the Shaki Khans’ Fortress, amazes visitors with its unique colors, precious glasses, and the ornaments that cover the ceilings of the palace. Watching the ornaments on the walls and ceilings, you will realize that each symbol has its story to tell.
Imagine a large garden where you walk freely in serenity, taste the fresh fruits that you see as walking along, come across all type of animals and feed them? You are dreaming about Bio Garden, Shaki! Starting as an idea of a local man, this place now has turned into the favorite place of the tourists. It feels like you are in the garden of grandpa, only larger, more beautiful, and full of every type of fruits and animals! After hectic Shaki city tour, relax in the Bio Garden of Shaki, that will definitely leave you with the dream of moving to country side and owning your own garden!
The amazing fortress of “Galarsan-Gorarsan”, is located on the summit of Garatepe Mountain, 4 km away from the center of Shaki. Its name has an interesting story. The Khan of Shaki, Haji Chalabi, once threatened his enemy who offered him to surrender: “Galarsan – Gorarsan” was his answer, which meant, “come and see!”. The Khan was confident, as this amazing fortress, now of which remains proudly survives on the summer, was once undefeatable. The enemy of Haji Chalabi, Nadir Shah arrived with great army, yet left after seeing that fortress cannot be invaded.
Yet, “Galarsan – Gorarsan” has double meaning in Azerbaijani language. It can be kind invitation from hospitable Shaki residents to guests, such as “come and see what wonders wait you here!”, or a threat to their enemies “If you come, beware what awaits you here!”. As you are a guest, and surely not intending for invasion, you should definitely visit this amazing fortress!
Restaurants
Below our choice of best restaurants in Shaki are listed for the visitors of this beautiful city:
