Gabala: land of beauty, ancient history

Spring is a time to travel along green fields, enjoy the awakening of nature and admire the blossoming of trees. What can be better than breathing this fresh air? In Azerbaijan, spring means it is time to head to the regions. The first region I invite you to visit is both ancient and new - Gabala city.

Gabala, which is located about 225 km away from the capital city, is a perfect place for rest and tourism. The weather here is mild in spring and autumn, hot in summer and cold in winter.

The region will surprise guests with its marvelous nature and ancient history. Both fauna and flora of the region are extremely rich, with thick forests and mountain landscapes, noble deer, wild boars, hares, bears, wolves, foxes and numerous birds.

However, tourists are mostly attracted by the region because of its captivating historical pull. Gabala was a capital of Caucasian Albania for about 600 years and was one of the largest cities of the region until the 15^th century. The city was such an attractive trade center, that it was attacked many times over by the Romans, the Sassanids, the Khazars, the Arabs, and the Kipchaks.

The city withstood the attacks of ruthless enemies, and entered history with the ruins of the ancient city, the reminders of a time long gone.

There is a great variety of historical and cultural monuments of different eras in this region – from 4th until 19th centuries.

The ruins of the city are located east of the village of Chukhur Gabala and south-west of the modern town of Gabala. The ruins of the citadel cover over 25 hectares. Here you can find the ancient walls and towers.

During the archaeological excavations scientists found the remains of walls and floors, fireplaces, ovens, pottery bowls, as well as items made from the bones and stones and ancient copper coins.

You can also head to the sacred stone near the village of Dizahly, which is a place of pilgrimage. The legend says the stone reflects the fingerprints of Imam Ali.

Near the Boyuk Emili village you can find an Albanian temple - 2^nd-3^rd century, that was built on the site of the temple of Mithras, which was honored as the patron deity of wandering warrior nomads and farmers by pagans.

These and much more historic sites are awaiting you in Gabala.

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