Round Church

Situated slightly away from the modern center of Sheki—an area that offers little in terms of architectural or cultural significance—the historical part of the city reveals a captivating narrative. The cobblestone streets, lined with old gray stone houses, lead visitors towards the imposing citadel, renowned for its massive fortress walls. Legend has it that these walls once withstood the might of the Persian Shah’s armies, a testament to their formidable construction.

Inside the fortress, one can find the ancient Albanian church, an unusual round structure that has witnessed centuries of transformation. Originally built during the legendary Albanian Kingdom, this church later served as a private mosque for the local khan. Following the annexation of the Sheki Khanate by Russia, the fortress became home to a Russian garrison, and the former mosque was repurposed as an Orthodox church.

Historical records suggest that the church’s original form was constructed before the 8th century, coinciding with a significant period of Christian expansion in Albania. Throughout its long history, the church has undergone numerous renovations, with some accounts indicating restoration efforts during the times of Dervish Muhammad and Chelebi Khan. Following Azerbaijan’s incorporation into the Russian Empire in the 19th century, the Round Temple, located in the central city of the province—Nukh—underwent structural modifications, adapting to serve as a church for Russian soldiers. The temple retains its original appearance, crowned by a dome, and comprises four distinct halls, each echoing the rich history embedded within its walls.

Today, this ancient building houses the Sheki Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts, with a pile of old stuff and historical artifacts, albeit exclusively in Azerbaijani. 

The palace itself, from the outside, resembles a modest country residence belonging to an average aristocrat, its size belied by the grandeur of its history. Inside, the walls of every room are adorned with intricate frescoes, while colorful stained glass windows filter sunlight, casting a kaleidoscope of hues across the interiors and providing a shield against the harsh rays of the sun.