Foreign media explore Azerbaijan’s historic Shamakhi during WUF13 tour PHOTO

On 21 May, as part of the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13), a media tour to Shamakhi was organised for representatives of foreign media visiting Azerbaijan, jointly by the Media Development Agency and the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operating Company.

The media tour first included a visit to the Shamakhi Juma Mosque, one of the oldest Muslim places of worship in Azerbaijan, the South Caucasus, and the broader Middle East, Azertag reports.

It was noted that the mosque, built in 743, has retained its historical and cultural significance despite having faced various historical trials and destructive earthquakes over the centuries.

It was emphasised that, during restoration work, the mosque’s historical architectural style and original elements were carefully preserved.

Finally, the foreign media representatives visited the village of Demirchi, which is rich in centuries-old blacksmithing traditions, and were provided with detailed information about the village’s history. 

It was emphasised that Demirchi is one of the oldest villages in Shamakhi, with its history dating back to the 15th century. In ancient times, the village was called Gyuneychai, but due to the widespread development of blacksmithing in the area, the settlement was later renamed Demirchi.

By Aghakazim Guliyev