Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower
By Liz Jurkowski
What is the Walled City of Baku?
Baku’s Old City, or Icherisheher, is the historic heart of Azerbaijan’s capital. Stepping inside its ancient walls feels like entering a different era entirely. Enclosed by sturdy defensive walls and located directly along the Caspian Sea, this compact UNESCO World Heritage site is home to two iconic structures: the Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshah’s Palace. Together with narrow cobbled alleys, stone caravanserais, and beautiful mosques, they form the oldest part of Baku and a fascinating glimpse into Azerbaijan’s rich past.
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The Maiden Tower, cylindrical and mysterious, has puzzled historians for centuries. Just a short walk away, up winding streets, sits the 15th-century Shirvanshah’s Palace, once home to Azerbaijan’s royal family. The site as a whole is a mix of ancient architecture, culture, and daily life, with locals still living and working within the walls of the maze-like site.
Why is the Walled City of Baku a UNESCO World Heritage site?
UNESCO added the Walled City of Baku to its World Heritage list in 2000 for its “outstanding universal value” as a rare surviving example of a historic urban settlement in the Caucasus region. The site showcases centuries of architecture and city planning from the Zoroastrian, Sassanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman, and Russian periods. According to UNESCO, the area “represents an outstanding and rare example of a historic urban ensemble and architecture at the crossroads of several civilizations.”
What can you expect on a visit to the Old City of Baku?
Walking through Icherisheher, I was struck by the contrast between Baku’s gleaming modern skyline and the ancient stone walls of its old town. One moment, I was standing beneath the glittering Flame Towers and the next, I was wandering past craftsmen hammering copper into trays, just like they’ve done for centuries.
Climbing to the top of the Maiden Tower was one of my favorite moments. The stairs are steep and narrow, but the panoramic view of Baku’s mix of old and new is absolutely worth it. Legend surrounds the tower’s purpose. Some say it was a Zoroastrian fire temple, others believe it was a watchtower or an observatory. It stands as a symbol of Baku and a puzzle for history lovers.
The Shirvanshah’s Palace complex, located on a hill above the town, feels like a quiet retreat within Baku’s busy downtown area. I wandered through the courtyards, admired the delicate stonework of the Divankhana (council hall), and stood in the palace mosque where traces of tilework remain. What I loved most was how well the site has been preserved and interpreted. There are signs and exhibits that make it easy to imagine life here centuries ago.
Is Baku Old City worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s not just a stopover. It’s the kind of place that deserves slow exploration. You could easily spend half a day wandering its alleys, popping into small museums and cafes, and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s a must-see if you’re in Baku, and honestly, a good enough reason to plan a trip to Azerbaijan in the first place. Include it in your Baku itinerary!
Also consider visiting some of the other UNESCO sites in Azerbaijan.
To find accommodations in Baku, use the map below, which is centered on the Old City:
What sorts of travelers would like the Walled City of Baku?
History fans, architecture lovers, and cultural travelers will find plenty to appreciate here. Photographers will love the textures and light of the stone buildings. Curious wanderers (like me and my family) will enjoy how easy it is to get lost in the winding streets and stumble upon something fun and unexpected.
Tips for visiting Baku Old City
Wear good walking shoes. Cobblestones can be slippery, especially after rain. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for soft light and fewer crowds. The Maiden Tower and Palace have entry fees, and both offer multi-language signs. Consider pairing your visit with a walk along the Baku Boulevard just outside the city walls or a detour to the Heydar Aliyev Center for a dramatic contrast in architectural styles.
Consider taking a walking tour of Baku that includes both the new and old parts, or take one that covers just the Old City.
Where is the Walled City of Baku?
The Walled City is located in the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, right on the Caspian Sea.
By car: From the Baku city center or most hotels, it takes only 5–10 minutes to reach the Old City by taxi or rideshare. Parking can be found nearby but is limited, and some areas require a small fee.
By public transport: Take the metro to Icherisheher Station. It drops you right at the entrance to the Old City walls. It’s efficient, inexpensive, and easy to use.
For more information about the Walled City of Baku, its opening hours and admission fees, see its official website.
Have you been to Baku Old City? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!