Shamakhi: Foreign journalists attending the World Urban Forum 13 (WUF13) in Azerbaijan participated in a media tour to Shamakhi. The event was jointly organized by the Media Development Agency and the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the tour commenced with a visit to the historic Juma Mosque of Shamakhi. Journalists were informed about the mosque's significance as one of the oldest Muslim sanctuaries in Azerbaijan, the South Caucasus, and the Middle East. Despite enduring various historical challenges and natural disasters, the mosque, constructed in 743, has maintained its cultural importance. Efforts during its restoration were focused on preserving the mosque's original architectural features.
The media delegation then proceeded to the Meysari winery complex. Journalists were introduced to the winemaking traditions of Azerbaijan, particularly in the Meysari village of the Shamakhi district. The region's natural conditions, including its climate and soil, were highlighted as ideal for producing premium grape varieties.
The final destination of the tour was Demirchiler village, noted for its blacksmithing history. Journalists learned about the village's origins in the fifteenth century and its evolution into a blacksmithing hub. The village, originally called Guneychay, was renamed Demirchiler as the craft became widespread in the area.