Zagatala

diverse peoples charming churches

One of Azerbaijan’s most multicultural corners possesses historical relics galore and some interesting culinary secrets.

diverse peopleshistorical relics

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History and hazelnuts in the far north-west

You’ll find some interesting variations on traditional dishes in Azerbaijan’s far north-west, an area famous for its top-notch nuts and persimmons, both of which have their own dedicated harvest festivals. With various powers having ruled over this north-west corner of Azerbaijan, from Caucasian Albanians kings to Georgian queens and Russian tsars, the region is brimming with fascinating historical traces – the ruins of fortresses, towers and temples can all be explored. Plus, the ever-present Caucasus Mountains are home to an emerging network of enticing hiking trails.

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Sheki-Balakenregional map

INTERESTING FACT #1

Being one of the most multicultural regions of Azerbaijan, Zagatala is home to Avars, Laks, Tsakhurs, Udis, Ingiloys, and several other small ethnic groups.

INTERESTING FACT #2

Built from 1830 onwards, Zagatala fortress's purpose was to prevent attacks by the Dagestan-based guerrilla army of Shamil. Later sailors from the Russian battleship Potemkin, whose famous 1905 mutiny at Odessa foreshadowed the Russian revolution were imprisoned here.