History of İsmayilli

Ismayilli region, located in the north of the country since the 4th century was the part of Caucasian Albania. The ruins of a medieval castle, the origin of which is linked with the name of Caucasian Albania ruler Javanshir (VII century), are preserved here.

The most famous and important historical monument in the region is the Maiden Tower (VII-XII centuries) - a fortress located on a steep mountain near the village of Hanagah. Another popular historical monument of the region is the Maiden Tower (VII-XII centuries), a protective building located on the top of the invisible mountain.

Historical and cultural reserves were created in Lahij and Basgal villages. XVII century mosque and bath in Basqal village, Badajun Mosque, Zawari mosque (1791), Agholi mosque, and Zavaria spring historical monuments are under protection.

The Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower, which is located 10 kilometers away from the district center, near the village of Khanagh, on the peak of the mountainous Ismayilli State Reserve, is the most famous historical monument of these places. It is always cool because sun rays penetrate a mountain top covered with dense forest. There is an underground tunnel leading to the Cavanshir Castle, a few kilometers away from the tower. The history of the tower's construction is shown in various sources from the 7th to 1 1st century. This 1.5-hectare fortress is built on the top of the mountain surrounded by steep cliffs, on the right bank of the Akh-or river. It is possible to get to the same recreation area by car, but you will have to walk one kilometer to the castle. Crossing a  mountain river, in order to reach the Maiden Tower makes the journey even more interesting. It is best to take with you a local tour guide. It is worth climbing the historic monument in order to see the mysterious view from the Maiden Tower.

Javanshir Fortress

This castle, located 7 km away from the district center and 4 km away from Talistan village, on the right bank of Agchachay, is considered to be the pride of Ismayilli.  Talistan, one of Ismaili's oldest villages, is located 4 kilometers north of the district center. The toponym of the village means "glade settlement". There are found traces of 4 ancient settlements and 5 cemeteries around Talistan. The first archaeological excavations were carried out here in the 60s of the last century. The area is believed to have a 2000 year history.

After reaching the village by car, you can drive to Javanshir Castle on horseback or on foot. The castle consists of the outer and inner (inner tower) parts. The main part of the southern walls is 2 meters wide and 10 meters high. The two-hectare Icheri tower is built on the top of the mountain. It was intended for defense in the early Middle Ages. It is said that the perpetrators were thrown from the tower. The castle is named after the famous Albanian captain and ruler Javanshir Mehranini (642-681). The Girdiman dynasty, founded by the Mehran dynasty, was originated in the territory of modern Ismayilli and then spread throughout Albania. 

A 7 km underground tunnel had been excavated from Javanshir Fortress to Maiden Tower. Although the tunnel collapsed over time, parts of it have survived. There is a waterfall covered with dense forests on the territory of the fortress. This place has wonderful conditions for having a picnic.