lineage of silk heritage in Sheki

During a trip to the ancient silk centre of Sheki, a fascinating land nestled in the epic embrace of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, you discover the preservation of the rich art of silk artisanry. 

 

lineage of silkheritage in Sheki

Sericulture in Sheki is not just the process of fabric production. It is a true art that requires the highest craftsmanship, tremendous patience and dedication. Local masters skilfully employ traditional silk production methods, preserving authentic techniques passed down from generation to generation over centuries. 

The art of weaving in Sheki is strongly associated with the production of kelaghayi, an important aspect of national women’s dress. Made of pure silk, this unique item is considered a symbol of love and beauty, peace and tranquillity. Adorned with bright ornaments, this headdress embodies a number of features of folk life, ancient values and the resilience of Azerbaijani women. The process of its creation, consisting of several stages, is particularly intriguing. According to tradition, these scarves are exclusively made by men, expressing their feelings and attitudes towards women in the process. 

While other regions of Azerbaijan produce silk, the first place that comes to mind when discussing sericulture is, of course, Sheki. Here, ancient silk production traditions are still thriving, and the art of creating kelaghayi has even been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A visit to Sheki Silk Factory will give you the opportunity to observe the process of silk production, while you learn about this art. 

Don't forget to visit the workshop of Amiraslan Shamilov, son of the late craftsman Ziya Shamilov, located on M. E. Rasulzade Avenue. Here, while observing the riveting process of painting and decorating kelaghayi, you can witness all the subtleties of this craft. Colourful silk scarves with delicate patterns can be browsed at the shop affiliated with the Sheki Silk Factory or at the shop owned by Amiraslan Shamilov. The latter is located just below Upper Caravanserai on M. F. Akhundzadeh Street. 

For more information: 

Sheki Silk Factory 

www.azeripek.com 

+99455 623 8295 

Amiraslan Shamilov's Kelaghayi Workshop 

+99450 323 9090 

lineage of silk  | heritage in Sheki

Experience the Silk Road in Sheki

Show:

bookan adventure

Choose from a wide range of places to stay and tours to enjoy for the ultimate Azerbaijan travel experience.

Asset 1 tours

other experiencesin Sheki

Az Abrau Museum history blended with wine
Az Abrau Museum history blended with wine
Food, drinks and nightlife

Az Abrau Museum history blended with wine

Tucked away in Sheki District, an area renowned for its deep historical roots and acclaimed... More

Agritourism haven at Sheki’s Bio Garden
Agritourism haven at Sheki’s Bio Garden
Family holidays

Agritourism haven at Sheki’s Bio Garden

Sheki and its surroundings are an area where everyone can find activities to match their... More

Khan Mosque exhibits  Sheki’s regal roots
Khan Mosque exhibits Sheki’s regal roots
History and Local Lore Museums

Khan Mosque exhibits Sheki’s regal roots

The Khan Mosque Complex, after Sheki Khan’s Palace, is one of the most significant historical... More

Sheki's Kish Adasi river island odyssey
Sheki's Kish Adasi river island odyssey
Family holidays

Sheki's Kish Adasi river island odyssey

Kish Adasi in Sheki District is a favourite resort for relaxation and equestrian experiences, nestled... More

Through the mist of time a traditional hammam experience
Through the mist of time a traditional hammam experience
Sheki

Through the mist of time a traditional hammam experience

Once located on the Great Silk Road, Sheki is not only famous for being a... More

Experience the mountains of Sheki on horseback
Experience the mountains of Sheki on horseback
Family holidays

Experience the mountains of Sheki on horseback

Sheki has always attracted travellers with its wonderful nature, historical sites and architectural landmarks. But... More

Hiking along the Kish – Bash Goynuk trail
Hiking along the Kish – Bash Goynuk trail
Marked trails

Hiking along the Kish – Bash Goynuk trail

Although the hike from Kish village to Bash Goynuk village is long and physically tiring,... More

Hiking along the Bash Goynuk – Kish trail
Hiking along the Bash Goynuk – Kish trail
Marked trails

Hiking along the Bash Goynuk – Kish trail

Although the hike from Bash Goynuk to the village of Kish, where an ancient Albanian... More

Hiking along the Gumukh - Gashgachay trail
Hiking along the Gumukh - Gashgachay trail
Marked trails

Hiking along the Gumukh - Gashgachay trail

The route from Gumukh to Gashgachay goes mainly through the forest and is a good... More

Take a tour of the Sheki Khan's Palace
Take a tour of the Sheki Khan's Palace
World Heritage Sites

Take a tour of the Sheki Khan's Palace

Situated at one of Sheki City’s highest points, Sheki Khan’s Palace stands as an exquisite... More

Culinary masterclasses – dolma
Culinary masterclasses – dolma
Culinary master classes

Culinary masterclasses – dolma

Sheki has made culinary secrets and surprises. Don't miss the chance to attend a dolma... More

Kish reveals traces of Caucasian Albania
Kish reveals traces of Caucasian Albania
Arts, culture and heritage

Kish reveals traces of Caucasian Albania

Kish is a small village near Sheki. It is a monument of the ancient civilization... More

Call into Sheki's craft shops
Call into Sheki's craft shops
Cultural activities

Call into Sheki's craft shops

A journey through Sheki's boutiques opens up a delightful universe of authentic craftsmanship, with the... More

Explore the Historic Centre  of Sheki
Explore the Historic Centre of Sheki
Arts, culture and heritage

Explore the Historic Centre of Sheki

Aside from being a state historical and architectural reserve, the historic centre of Sheki is... More

Culinary masterclasses – halva
Culinary masterclasses – halva
Culinary master classes

Culinary masterclasses – halva

Taste and learn about Sheki's local food. Visit the citys sweet shops and try out... More

read more aboutregion and route

Sheki
Sheki

Sheki

Visit Sheki, a small city off the forested slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains rich in Silk Road history and renowned for its fascinating architecture. More

North-western route
North-western route

North-western route

You’ll be following in the footsteps of ancient travellers and merchants on this scenic route along the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. More

Azerbaijan right now #ExperienceAzerbaijan

This is where your mind will wander, where your soul will flourish & where your senses come alive. Share your experience.

subscribe to our newsletter