Gakh District – A destination of natural beauty and historical treasures VIDEO
Gakh, July 10, AZERTAC
Gakh, an Azerbaijani district with immense tourism potential, offers visitors a unique blend of mesmerizing nature, a mild and refreshing mountain climate, and rich, healing mineral springs.
According to AZERTAC’s regional correspondent, every corner of this land, steeped in ancient history and culture, provides a perfect retreat for tourists. The city of Gakh, renowned for its cleanliness, greenery, and distinctive historical architecture, along with the ancient village of Ilisu, nestled in the heart of the Greater Caucasus, are among the district's top attractions for both local and foreign visitors.
Every street, corner, and alley of Gakh, located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, reveals new, picturesque views. The architectural projects completed in harmony with the local style captivate visitors with their authenticity and beauty.
One of the highlights is the "Icheribazar" Tourism and Cultural Center, established in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. It has become a popular recreational space for tourists. The Fortress’ Gates and Walls, dating back to the 16th century, stand on the city’s central street. In ancient times, trade caravans passed through this area, and the locals referred to it as Icheribazar, or Inner Market, which served as a key trading hub.
As part of smart urban planning, the complex now features a 300-seat open-air theater and 10 artisan workshops, showcasing crafts such as applied arts, woodcarving, weaving, Oriental sweets, and traditional tandoor baking.
The Applied Arts Sales Center offers national souvenirs, paintings, wooden and stone carvings, textiles, and souvenir carpets crafted by local artisans.
Notably, in the 1880s, the blacksmith workshop of Muhammad, the father of the prominent Azerbaijani composer and public figure Muslim Magomayev, was located in this area.
The ancient village of Ilisu is another major tourist attraction, drawing large numbers of visitors with its rich flora, fauna, and significant historical and architectural monuments.
The "Ilisu" State Historical-Cultural Reserve has been operating for over 20 years, with the mission of preserving and safeguarding the village’s historical heritage for future generations.
Ilisu is home to several noteworthy historical sites, including Sumug Fortress, Ulu Bridge, Ulu Mosque, Galaja, the Gala (Fortress) Complex, Jinli Fortress, and various epigraphic monuments.