This is Baku Tours – Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity. One of the most prominent landmarks of this city is the Maiden Tower, which stands tall in the Old City of Baku. The Maiden Tower Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction on your Baku tour. In this article, we’ll explore the history, architecture, and significance of Maiden Tower Baku. WikiPedia
Introduction
The Maiden Tower Baku is a cylindrical-shaped tower that stands at 29.5 meters tall. It is located on a rocky outcrop on the southern edge of the Old City of Baku, overlooking the Caspian Sea. The tower has eight floors, each with a different purpose, and a rooftop that offers a panoramic view of the city. Maiden Tower Baku is shrouded in mystery and legend, with several theories surrounding its construction and purpose.
History of Maiden Tower Baku
The history of Maiden Tower Baku is shrouded in mystery, and there are several theories surrounding its construction and purpose. The most widely accepted theory is that the tower was built during the 12th century, as part of the Shirvanshahs’ Palace complex. The Shirvanshahs were a dynasty that ruled Azerbaijan from the 9th to the 16th century, and they are credited with building many of the architectural marvels in the region.
The Maiden Tower Baku was originally used as a watchtower and a lighthouse in the medieval period. It was built at a strategic location overlooking the Caspian Sea, and its height allowed for the monitoring of the sea and the surrounding areas. The tower also served as a beacon for sailors and fishermen, who used its light to navigate the treacherous waters of the Caspian Sea.
Later, during the 17th and 18th centuries, the Maiden Tower Baku was used as a fire temple and a mint. The temple was dedicated to the Zoroastrian god of fire, and the tower was used to store and mint coins. It is believed that during this time, the tower underwent some renovations and modifications to its interior, including the addition of a wooden staircase.
There are also legends surrounding the Maiden Tower Baku, which suggest that it was used as a prison and even as a place for sacrificial rituals. One legend claims that a ruler of Baku imprisoned his daughter in the tower to prevent her from marrying a commoner. Another legend tells the story of a young maiden who threw herself off the tower to avoid being forced to marry a man she did not love, hence the name “Maiden Tower.”
Despite the many theories and legends surrounding its history, the Maiden Tower Baku remains a fascinating and iconic landmark in Azerbaijan. Its unique architecture and significance make it a must-visit attraction on any Baku tour.
Architecture of Maiden Tower Baku
The architecture of Maiden Tower Baku is a testament to the skills and ingenuity of medieval builders. The tower is cylindrical in shape, which is unusual for the region, and is constructed entirely of local limestone. The tower has a diameter of 16.5 meters at the base and a height of 29.5 meters. The walls of the tower are an impressive 5 meters thick at the base and gradually taper towards the top.
The entrance to the tower is on the second floor, which can be accessed through a stone staircase. The entrance is only accessible from the land side, which suggests that the tower was originally built as a defensive structure. The interior of the tower is divided into eight floors, each with a different function. The first floor was used for storage, while the second floor was used for living quarters. The third and fourth floors were used for defensive purposes, with arrow slits and gun ports built into the walls.
The upper floors of the tower were used for a variety of functions over the centuries. The fifth floor was used as a treasury, while the sixth floor was used as a library. The seventh floor was used as a mosque, and the eighth floor was used as a watchtower. The rooftop of the tower offers a breathtaking view of Baku and the Caspian Sea, and it is believed that the rooftop was used as a lookout point.
In conclusion, the architecture of Maiden Tower Baku is a unique and fascinating example of medieval engineering. The tower’s cylindrical shape, thick walls, and eight floors with different functions are a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the builders who constructed it. A visit to This Tower of Baku is not only a chance to learn about Azerbaijan’s rich history and culture but also an opportunity to marvel at an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time.
Significance of Maiden Tower Baku
Maiden Tower Baku has great significance in Azerbaijani history and culture. The tower has been a symbol of Baku for centuries and is featured prominently on the Azerbaijani currency note. It has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further cementing its importance to Azerbaijani culture.
The tower has played a significant role in Azerbaijani folklore and legends. One popular legend associated with the tower is that of the Maiden’s tragic love story. According to the legend, a beautiful maiden was locked inside the tower by her father, who wanted her to marry a man she did not love. The maiden refused to marry the man and instead chose to throw herself off the tower to her death. This tragic story is said to be the reason behind the tower’s name.
In addition to its cultural significance, Maiden Tower Baku also has historical importance. The tower was originally built as a watchtower and served as a lighthouse in the medieval period. Later on, it was used as a fire temple and a mint. Its strategic location overlooking the Caspian Sea made it an important defensive structure for the city of Baku.
Today, Maiden Tower Baku is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Baku. Visitors can explore the tower’s eight floors and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. The tower also offers breathtaking views of the city and the Caspian Sea from its rooftop, making it a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
In conclusion, this Tower of Baku is not just an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of Azerbaijan’s rich history, culture, and folklore. Its significance has been recognized by UNESCO, and it continues to be a popular tourist attraction and an important landmark of Baku.
Travel to Baku and Baku Hotels
If you’re planning a Baku tour, then Maiden Tower Baku should be on your itinerary. Baku is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some of the best Baku hotels include the Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Fairmont Baku, and Hilton Baku. You can also find budget-friendly hotels and hostels in Baku’s Old City, which is just a short walk from this Tower of Baku.
In conclusion, Maiden Tower Baku is a fascinating attraction that should not be missed on your Baku tour. The tower’s rich history, unique architecture, and significance make it a must-visit landmark in Azerbaijan. So, if you’re planning a travel to Baku, make sure to add Maiden Tower Baku to your list of things to do and see.