Basgal: The latest feature in AZERTAC's "If I Were a Tourist" column highlights the Basgal settlement in Azerbaijan's Ismayilli district. Standing out as one of Azerbaijan's most remarkable ancient settlements, Basgal is a destination where history, culture, and nature blend in perfect harmony. Located in the country's Ismayilli district, this historic settlement attracts thousands of local and foreign visitors every year with its cobblestone streets that preserve the memory of centuries, historic architectural monuments, traditional craftsmanship, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, nestled on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, near the Niyaldagh Ridge, Basgal is one of the few settlements that has preserved traces of medieval urban culture to this day. Historic fortress walls, an ancient bazaar square, artisan quarters, mosques, natural springs, an underground water supply and sewerage system known as kurebend, and narrow streets paved with river stones all tell the story of the settlement's rich past.
Research shows that Basgal has been continuously inhabited since the 11th century. Graves and box-shaped tombstones (sanduga) dating back to the 16th-18th centuries in the local cemetery also reflect the deep-rooted history of this ancient settlement. The Basgal State Historical-Cultural Reserve was established in 1989. Under an Order signed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, extensive restoration and construction work was carried out within the reserve in 2022.
One of Basgal's most striking features is its architectural heritage. The houses were built with the seismic characteristics of the Shirvan region in mind. Timber beams known as ketil, inserted into the walls after every few layers of stone, increased the buildings' flexibility and enhanced their resistance to earthquakes. The truncated corners of houses facing the streets are another fascinating example of the settlement's traditional urban planning.
A popular stop for tourists visiting Basgal is the 17th-century Basgal Hamam. Built in the classical Oriental architectural style, this historic structure was restored in 2021 and converted into a museum. Here, visitors can discover aspects of Azerbaijani bath culture, the design of traditional hamams, and their unique underground heating systems. Another prominent historical monument is the Sheikh Mohammed Mosque, built in 1531, with archaeological excavations around the mosque uncovering artifacts from various historical periods.
The craft that brought Basgal worldwide recognition is kelaghayi, the traditional Azerbaijani silk headscarf. During the Middle Ages, Basgal was one of Shirvan's leading silk-producing and weaving centers, and the kelaghayis crafted here gained widespread renown in both Eastern and European markets. Today, visitors can take part in kelaghayi masterclasses organized by local artisans and gain hands-on experience in this centuries-old craft.
Basgal's Historic Bazaar Square, once the main center of regional trade, has preserved its historic atmosphere, offering visitors the enchanting feeling of traveling back to the Middle Ages. The settlement is also renowned for its rich culinary traditions, offering local specialties such as Basgal halva, pip dolmasi, piti, locally produced cheeses, mulberry molasses, and rose jam.
Additionally, Basgal offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Modern resorts set against sweeping mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and wellness facilities make the settlement an ideal destination for both family holidays and solo travelers. Located approximately 160 kilometers from Baku, Basgal can be reached by car in about three to three and a half hours. Those traveling by public transport can first reach Ismayilli and then take local transportation to the settlement.
Basgal reveals a different kind of beauty in every season, making it a must-visit for travelers interested in history, national heritage, and nature.