Icheri Sheher – Golden Past of Baku
Icheri Sheher, also known as the Old City, is a historical fortress located in the heart of Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by walls that are up to 12 meters high and 5 meters thick in some places.
Inside the fortress, we will find many historical landmarks such as the Maiden Tower, Shirvanshahs’ Palace. The Maiden Tower, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Baku and is believed to have been built in the 12th century.
In addition to the historical landmarks, Icheri Sheher is also home to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, as well as shop for traditional Azerbaijani carpets, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
Architecture of Icheri Sheher
The architecture of Icheri Sheher is a mix of various styles that reflect the historical and cultural influences of the different periods in which the fortress was built and developed.
One of the most distinctive architectural features of Icheri Sheher is the defensive walls that surround the fortress. The walls are made of stone and are up to 12 meters high in some places, with narrow towers and gates that were used to control access to the city.
Inside the fortress, you can find many examples of medieval Islamic architecture, such as the Maiden Tower, which is a cylindrical tower with eight floors, and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, which includes a variety of structures such as a mosque, a mausoleum, and a bathhouse.
Icheri Sheher is a unique blend of different styles that reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Azerbaijan’s history and heritage
The buildings in Icheri Sheher are typically made of stone and brick, with arched doorways and windows, and intricate carvings and decorations. The buildings are often adorned with traditional Azerbaijani motifs, such as the buta or paisley, which is a popular decorative element in Azerbaijani art.
In addition to the Islamic architecture, you can also find examples of European architecture in Icheri Sheher, particularly in the buildings that were built during the 19th century, when Azerbaijan was under Russian rule. These buildings feature elements such as neoclassical columns, pediments, and ornate facades.
Carvings
Carvings are a prominent feature of the architecture in Icheri Sheher, particularly in the medieval Islamic structures such as the Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace. The carvings are typically intricate and detailed, featuring a variety of patterns and motifs that reflect the artistic traditions of the region.
One common motif found in the carvings of Icheri Sheher is the buta, which is a stylized teardrop-shaped motif that is often used in Azerbaijani art and embroidery. The buta can be found on many of the buildings in Icheri Sheher, including the walls, doors, and windows.
The carvings in Icheri Sheher were typically created by skilled artisans who specialized in stone or wood carving
Other common motifs in the carvings include geometric patterns, arabesques, and floral designs. These motifs are often combined to create complex and intricate designs that cover entire walls or surfaces.
These artisans would use chisels and other tools to carefully carve the designs into the surface of the material, often working for months or even years to complete a single project
Today, the carvings in Icheri Sheher are not only appreciated for their beauty and historical significance, but they also serve as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who created them.
