On the road to the north of Azerbaijan, in the town of Shamakhi, there is a mosque that is almost 1,300 years old. It survived earthquakes, a fire and many repairs, and today people pray in it again. The Juma Mosque in Shamakhi is one of the first stops on routes to the north of the country, and here you can see history, not only read about it.

The age of the mosque is known from an Arabic inscription on its façade. It points to the year 126 of the Hijri calendar, which is 743–744 CE.

History of the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi

The history of the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi begins in the time of Arab rule in the Caucasus, when Islam was becoming established in the region. People consider it one of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus: only the Juma Mosque in Derbent, built in 734, is named as older.

Shamakhi lies in an earthquake zone, so the building was damaged many times. The earthquake of 1859 did great harm to the mosque, and it was rebuilt in 1860. After the very strong earthquake of 1902, it was rebuilt again with money from donations. In March 1918, the mosque burned during the events in Shamakhi, and people who were hiding in it died.

Ancient Mosques of Azerbaijan: What Makes It Different

Among the ancient mosques of Azerbaijan, the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi stands out not only for its age but also for its plan. It is a rectangular building, about 46 by 28 meters, with three halls. Each hall has its own mihrab (a niche that shows the direction of prayer) and its own entrance. People compare its plan with the Juma Mosque in Derbent. Its columns and vaults carry traces of different periods: some parts were kept, and some were replaced during repairs.

Restoration in 2010–2013

In 2009, the decision was made to restore the mosque completely. The work began in March 2010, and the opening ceremony took place on 17 May 2013. The foundation was strengthened with reinforced concrete because Shamakhi is in an earthquake zone. The minarets are 36.4 meters high, and the main hall can hold up to 1,500 people. In the yard there are two pools and galleries.

Things to See in Shamakhi on the Way North

Among the things to see in Shamakhi, the Juma Mosque is the best known. For many centuries Shamakhi was one of the capitals of the Shirvanshah state. Today it lies on the way to the Ismayilli forests and to Gabala, so the mosque is easy to add to a route. It is an active mosque where people pray, so it is better to stay quiet and respectful near it. On tours around the regions of Azerbaijan, guests look at the building and the area around it and then continue the trip.

Tours in Shamakhi with a Stop at the Juma Mosque