The Maiden Tower in Baku — Most Fascinating & Mysterious UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Maiden Tower in Baku is one of the historical landmarks of Azerbaijan. It is a proud symbol for the people of the land, finding a place on the Azerbaijan currency and official letterheads. Also known as Giza Galasy in Azerbaijani, the iconic monument is inextricably intertwined with the culture.
Standing tall on the southern edge of the old walled city of Icheri Sheher and overlooking the Caspian Sea, the origins of the tower remain a puzzle to this very day. Explorers and travellers visit the site out of curiosity to unearth the mystery surrounding it. This is the reason why Maiden Tower is always on the list in Azerbaijan tour packages.
History
No historical sources are currently available that show evidence for the origins, construction or naming of the Maiden Tower. However, many scholars and experts believe that the structure was built in two separate periods in history.
The foundation was probably built around the 6th or 7th century BC, and the rest in the 12th century AD. The difference in construction stones drives this theory.
Why the Maiden Tower was built remains a mystery. Various theories point to religious beliefs and the defence system as answers. Many speculate that the monument was a Zoroastrian temple as it predates the Islamic religion. Other experts believe it was an astronomical observatory, given the stone protrusions at different levels and their relation to lunar cycles.
Architecture
The Maiden Tower is a seven-storied cylindrical building, tapered at the top and resembles the shape of Buta when looked at from above. It is approximately 97 feet tall and 54 feet in diameter at the base. It is estimated that 200 people can be accommodated inside the tower.
Inside the tower, you will find eight floors with cupola ceilings made of hewed stones. Slits enable visitors to view the beautiful Caspian Sea. A stony stairway connects all the floors. It also gives insights into the magnificent stone masonry and centuries-old efficient plumbing system.
Today, you can find ancient cutleries safely placed behind the glasses. These were excavated during archaeological expeditions in the past. On the third floor, you can see the mock-up of the tower. Moreover, e-books, weapons, daggers and other modern projections are available to attract visitors and enrich them with knowledge about the Maiden Tower and the city.
Story
Artists, throughout the centuries, have taken a keen interest in The Maiden Tower of Baku. The inspiration has seeped into poems, stories, plays, ballets and different art forms of the land. Several legends are attached to the ancient monument. But one that of a King and his daughter is the most popular. There are different versions of the tale.
The mystery of the Maiden Tower may be unravelled someday, or it will remain hidden forever. After all, this unmatched enigma is what makes the site so admired and popular the world over. This makes the UNESCO World Heritage Site a major attraction for tourists worldwide.
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