Baku Fortress Wall, Baku

The Baku Fortress Wall is a historic landmark that stands as a testament to the city of Baku's ancient past and strategic importance through the centuries. Located in Azerbaijan's capital, the fortress walls are remnants of a once-imposing defensive structure that encircled the old part of Baku, known as Icherisheher, or the Inner City.

The fortress walls date back to as early as the 9th century, with significant additions and renovations carried out over subsequent periods, especially during the 12th century under Shirvanshahs’ rule and later in the 19th century under the Russian Empire. The walls were originally erected to protect the city against invasions and have withstood many attacks throughout their history.

Today, the Baku Fortress Wall is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an accolade that underscores its cultural and historical significance. The remaining structures include gates, towers, and battlements, offering a glimpse into the medieval architecture and military ingenuity of the time. The most notable gates are the Gosha Gala Gapisi (Double Gates) and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, which is a complex within the fortress area itself.

Visitors to the Baku Fortress Wall can walk along parts of the ancient ramparts and explore the old city, which is nestled within the walls. The area is rich with historical sites, including mosques, hamams (bathhouses), and the Maiden Tower, another enigmatic structure whose origins are shrouded in mystery.

The fortress walls are not just a static monument; they are part of the living city. Icherisheher is a vibrant community with shops, restaurants, and residences, making it a unique blend of the ancient and the modern. The Baku Fortress Wall is open to the public year-round, and it provides not only a journey into the past but also panoramic views of the modern cityscape of Baku, with its blend of traditional and contemporary architecture.