Shaki is a city in northwestern Azerbaijan. Shaki is located in northern Azerbaijan on the southern part of the Greater Caucasus mountain range, 325 km from Baku. The population was 63,700 (in 2012). People in Shaki speak Azerbaijani.
Geography and climate
Shaki is surrounded by snowy peaks of the Greater Caucasus. Its climate includes a range of cyclones and anticyclones, air masses and local winds. The average annual temperature in Shaki is 12 °C. In June and August, average temperature varies between 20 and 25 °C.
The mountain forests around the area prevent the city from floods and overheating of the area during summer. The main rivers of the city are the Kish and Gurjhana.
Attractions
Shaki is one of the most ancient cities of Azerbaijan and has one of the greatest cultural resources and monuments that include 2700 years of Azerbaijani history.
Historical monuments of Shaki include old cemetery, Caravanserai, old mosque, Salman valley, village Tower opening, Shaki History Museum, ancient hills and the Palace of Shaki Khan Saray. The city has a lot of houses with red roofs.
The city is one of the most beautiful and lushest towns in Azerbaijan and its eco-tourism is active. The main square of the city is a very large park, filled with the tree houses. This part of the town is relatively new.
Of course, Shaki is famous for its silk and classy silk scarves can still be found in the markets of the city.
Shaki has always played the main role in Azerbaijani art and more generally in the art and architecture of Azerbaijan. It is home of annual Mugham Festival and Silk Road International Music Festival.
Cuisine
Perhaps the best-known aspect of Shaki cooking is its rich sweet dishes. Shaki is traditionally held as the home of special type of baklava, called Shaki Halva. Others include nabat.
Shaki also has some famous dishes, including girmabadam, zilviya, piti, a stew created with meat and potatoes and prepared in a terracotta pot.