Nardaran Fortress

About this place

Nardaran Fortress is a stronghold from the time of the Shirvanshahs in the settlement of Nardaran, north of Baku on the Absheron Peninsula. It is among the most complete old fortifications in the area, with a cylindrical tower rising from a square walled courtyard, and draws architecture and history lovers despite having few visitors. Two inscriptions on the tower's facade say it was built in the Hijri year 700, or 1301, by the architect Mahmud ibn Sad. The same architect worked on the Bibi-Heybat Mosque and the Molla Ahmad Mosque in Baku's Old City. In 2001 the fortress joined UNESCO's tentative list along with other Caspian defences. The walls rise 6 m and are reinforced by towers at the four corners, while the central tower stands 12.5 m high, with three tiers topped by stone domes and a raised entrance on the second tier. Unlike other Absheron fortresses, its walls do not lean inward as they rise but stay straight. All of it is built of local stone. It is 21 km in a straight line from central Baku, easiest by car or taxi, and combines well with the Mardakan and Ramana fortresses. Nardaran is a conservative town, so dress modestly and ask before photographing people. The door may be locked, as sources mention a museum inside with no published hours, but you can always view it from outside.