This an ancient Azerbaijani city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Shirvan, the residence of the ruling Shirvanshahs and one of the most beautiful cities in the East. The homeland of Khagani, Nasimi and Mirza Alakbar Sabir, it was also from the middle of the 18th century the centre of the Shirvan Khanate. The unique nature, mild climate and natural mineral springs give this district a special beauty. A favourite peak for mountain climbers, Badabag, is also located here. The settlement of Pirguli, located 22 km from the city centre at an altitude of 1,400 m, is also very popular with tourists. It is home to the largest astrophysical observatory in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus - the Nasir al-Din al-Tusi Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. The observatory is equipped with the latest facilities and has one of the largest telescopes in the CIS.
