Shamakha and Copper craftsmanship of Lahij

Have you seen all there is to see in the magnificent city of Baku and looking to discover the wonders that lie beyond it? Then book through FlosNiveus and go on an exciting day tour that’ll take you to the historic city of Shamakhi and the village of Lahij! Majority of Azerbaijan’s significant historical and political events took place in this metropolis.

There, you’ll be able to marvel at incredible structures built using a specific style of architecture that was developed to withstand earthquakes as well as learn how the residents of the village are divided depending on their particular crafts. This is definitely a must-book adventure for any traveler visiting Azerbaijan, especially for those who want to immerse themselves in its fascinating culture.

The Lahic and Shamakhi Day Tour combines scenic drives, unbeatable souvenir shopping and historical sites for a memorable full-day tour. Azerbaijan’s rich and glorious heritage will be brought to life through the cobblestone streets and skilled artisans of mountain village Lahic, the imposing grandeur of Juma Mosque in Shamakhi and the unusually constructed Yeddi Gumbaz and Diri Baba Mausoleums. Diri Baba is a two-storied mausoleum-mosque of the 15th century. The mausoleum stands in a square located on a glyptic cliff. The monument was built of white limestone in a cave hollowed out of a rock in 1402. The dome of the monument has the same style of decorative work as the Shirvanshahs palace complex, which links it with the famous 15th-century monuments in Baku. For centuries, legends about the monument have been widely discussed among people. The monument is considered a sacred place. For a long time the local residents have kept the legend that Saint Diri-Baba had been buried at this place.

Lahic village is home to the minority Tat people, distinguished by their unique language and world-famous craftsmanship. Copper craftsmanship of Lahij is the traditional practice of making and using copperware concentrated in the Lahij community in the Caucasus. The copper-smelting master coordinates the entire process and is accompanied by an apprentice who learns the necessary techniques while helping the master. The coppersmith-hammerer pumps the air into the ovens and hammers the smelted copper into thin plates. A craftsperson then polishes the hammered copper plates and decorates the ready copperware with engravings. This final stage of the process is said to be particularly important as the designs used often have an enviro. Lahij is a wonderland part of the Silk Road with cobbled streets, skilled potters, wood carvers and an amazing road to Lahij with Asma Korpu (hanging bridge over river, with tea break place). Lahij is famous for manufactured cold steel and copper utensils, decorated with engraved ornaments with dozens of workshops, where hereditary blacksmiths make various household items.

• The city is the home of many Azerbaijani poets, so you’ll get acquainted with the country’s literary scene

• Roam the humble streets of Lahij and revel in the tranquility of its quaint and peaceful environment

• Immerse yourself in the country’s cultural heritage through copper crafts and witnessing the local traditions

Tour Itinerary

Your private guide and driver will meet you at your Baku hotel. Drive to Shamakhi (180km, 2hrs 30min). On the way, stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum (15th century), located in the village of Maraza. Continue driving to ancient Shamakhi, former seat of the Shirvanshah Empire, to visit:

You see and visit:

• Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum (19th century), burial site of the last khan of Shamakhi.

• Kalakhane

• Diri Baba Mausoleum

• Caves and labyrinthss of Mausoulem

• Asma Korpu (eng.hanging bridge)

• Shamakha city

• Lahij village

• Obesrvatory (on wish)

Drive through the breathtaking Girdimanchay River Valley to the small alpine village of Lahic (60km, 1hr 15min), situated 2000 meters above sea level. Explore this ancient cobblestone village filled with traditional workshops and uniquely built homes. Shop for unique copperware, leather, jewelry, iron tools, carpets, pottery and daggers as local artisans demonstrate their techniques.
Tour the Lahic History Museum, where you can learn about the lifestyle of Azerbaijan’s people throughout the centuries while enjoying a picturesque view of the area.
Drive back to Baku. End of Lahic and Shamakhi Day Tour.

Good to know

Insider Tips:

• This tour involves a fair amount of walking so it's recommended that you wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes on the date of your tour

• Things to bring: camera, hat, and sunscreen

What's Included

• Professional guide

• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Entry/Admission - Juma Mosque

• Local taxes

• Individual (private) transportation

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

What's Not Included

• Lunch

• Entry/Admission - DiriBaba Mausoleum

Additional Information

Azerbaijan’s top provincial holiday center, The group tour starts at 9:00 or 10:00 AM, and the duration is approximately 12 hours. One day before our guide will contact you and get the location of your hotel or any accommodation in Baku. Our first stop is Shamakha which was the ancient capital of Shirvansah’s reign. . After reaching Lahij village taste delicious lunch at the traditional restaurant. You can enjoy nature walking around the village.