Shamakhi
Shamakhi Juma Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, founded in the 8th century and rebuilt many times since.
The Juma Mosque in Shamakhi was originally founded in 743 CE, which makes it one of the oldest mosque sites in the Caucasus and the second-oldest in the region after the Juma Mosque in Derbent.
It is the standard first stop on the drive from Baku toward Gabala, and it makes a good introduction to the Shirvan region's long history.
Destroyed and rebuilt
Shamakhi sits in a seismically active zone and has been levelled by earthquakes repeatedly across its history — in 1667, 1859, 1902 and again in 1918, among others. The mosque has been destroyed and rebuilt each time.
What stands today is a modern reconstruction on the historic footprint, completed in recent years, with three domed prayer halls and twin minarets. Purists sometimes object to how thorough the rebuilding was; the counter-argument is that continuity of use at a site occupied since the eighth century is itself the heritage.
The three-hall layout is unusual and is thought to reflect the original eighth-century plan.
Shamakhi's history
Shamakhi was the capital of the Shirvan state for centuries before the Shirvanshahs moved to Baku in the fifteenth century following earthquake damage — the move that produced the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
The surrounding hills form Azerbaijan's principal wine-growing region, and the wine factories along this route are a standard stop on the Shamakhi and Gabala day tour.
Nearby are the Yeddi Gumbaz — 'seven domes' — the ruined mausolea of the Shirvan khans, worth a short additional stop.
Highlights
- A mosque site in continuous use since 743 CE
- An unusual three-hall layout reflecting the original plan
- Twin minarets and domed prayer halls
- Close to the Yeddi Gumbaz mausolea
- Gateway to Azerbaijan's wine country
Tours that visit Shamakhi Juma Mosque
- Valley & Vineyard 2 Days / 1 Night from 410 AZN (≈ $241)
- Grand Azerbaijan Tour 5 Days / 4 Nights from 1060 AZN (≈ $624)
Not included: Entry tickets to all attractions, museums, cable cars and activity venues · Hotel / accommodation · Meals & drinks. Entry tickets are set by government authorities or venue operators and are payable directly on-site.
Frequently asked questions
How old is the Shamakhi Juma Mosque?
The site was founded in 743 CE, making it one of the oldest mosque sites in the Caucasus. The building itself is a modern reconstruction, as earthquakes have destroyed it repeatedly across its history.
Can non-Muslims visit the Juma Mosque?
Yes. Dress modestly, remove shoes where indicated, and women should cover their hair inside — scarves are usually available at the entrance. Avoid Friday prayer times unless you are attending.
Want Shamakhi Juma Mosque on your itinerary?
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