The Palace Mosque of the Shirvan Dynasty is situated on the lower level of the palace complex, having been constructed in 1441 to serve as a venue for religious ceremonies. Despite its small size, the mosque holds significant historical importance, primarily catering to an exclusive group of individuals, likely comprising members of the Shah’s family and their closest confidants.
The mosque features three entrances, each with its own distinct characteristics. The main entrance, located on the northern side, was reserved for the Shah and his relatives. This entrance is distinguished by an elegantly crafted portal framed by a wide stone border. Flanking the portal are niches specifically designed for footwear, adhering to the Muslim custom that prohibits entering a mosque in shoes without performing a ceremonial ablution. The eastern entrance, intended for general visitors, is marked by a more modest portal, while the western entrance lacks any notable features.
Inside, the mosque is divided into two prayer halls: a larger space designated for men and a smaller area for women. The mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca, is positioned along the southern wall. Various niches of different shapes are embedded in the walls, serving as storage for carpets, Qurans, and prayer beads. The windows are adorned with intricately designed stone lattice work, known as shebeke, which adds an element of beauty to this otherwise unassuming structure.
In the northeast corner of the mosque stands a striking 22-meter tall minaret. Beneath the stalactite belt of the minaret, an inscription reads: “…the greatest Sultan Halilullah I has ordered the erection of this minaret. May Allah glorify the days of his rule and reign…” This slender, tall minaret, along with the mosque’s larger and smaller domes, contributes to the picturesque silhouette of the Shah Mosque, making it a notable feature of the architectural landscape.
After Azerbaijan regained its independence from the Soviet Union, Martyrs’ Day was officially declared a national holiday. In 2010, the government honored the memory of the victims by establishing a memorial in the Yasamal District of Baku. This memorial, known as Shekhid Alley (Martyrs’ Lane), features the names of each national hero who perished during the Black January events inscribed on its walls, serving as a lasting tribute to their bravery.
Every year, on January 20, the people of Azerbaijan come together to commemorate this tragic event with a large, solemn procession to the memorial. Participants lay flowers and pay their respects, honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in the pursuit of justice and freedom.