Derbent is the oldest city in the world located in Dagestan on the Caspian coast. This place has rich historical and cultural traditions. The city of Derbent is a place worth visiting for every traveler. Ancient buildings, fortresses, citadels, unusual cult sites, interesting architecture - this is an incomplete list of what a tourist is waiting for here. In this article we will discuss the most popular and famous sights of Derbent.
From the history of the city
The first settlements on the territory of the modern city arose more than 6 thousand years ago. In the 6th century BC e. Derbent is mentioned in ancient Greek written sources. Centuries later, a fortress was founded here by the coming soldiers from Persia. In the 7th century Arabs settled in the city and laid the Juma mosque, which was the spiritual center of the followers of Islam in the Caucasian lands. In addition, the city became the main stronghold of the Arab Caliphate in this territory. In the 11th century lands of Derbent were invaded by Seljuk Turks. From the 14th century the city was part of the Safavid state. Soon, this territory became a permanent arena of struggle between Russia and Persia. Peter I, realizing the importance of this point, made a Caspian expedition through the lands of Derbent. In the 18th century as a result of a new campaign, the territory officially passed under the authority of Russia. In 1813, after long negotiations with Iran, these lands (in particular, the city of Derbent) finally became entrenched in the empire.
Modern Derbent
Today, Derbent is a real open-air museum city. This is an important historical and archaeological reserve and cultural center of Dagestan. The sights of Derbent impress with their grandeur. This place has a centuries-old history and cultural tradition. Every year, Derbent (Dagestan) is visited by thousands of tourists from all over the world.
Interesting facts about the city:
- in 2006, Derbent was recognized by the international community as the most tolerant city in the territory of modern Russia;
- representatives of 60 nationalities live on its territory;
- the area of the museum-reserve is more than 140 hectares;
- it is the southernmost city of Russia;
- the population of Derbent exceeds 100 thousand people.
Naryn-kala fortress
The main attraction of Derbent. This stronghold, erected in the 6th century, is quite well preserved. In ancient times, this fortress blocked the passage between the Caucasus and the Caspian and was a strategically important object. Its area exceeds 4 hectares. The walls of the fortress, which reached 3 m in thickness, prevented the constant raids of nomads from Southeast Asia. The southern part of the fortification was almost destroyed, but the northern section has survived to this day. Interestingly, throughout the entire history of its existence, the Derbent walls survived many invasions. Also, baths located inside the fortress have survived to this day. On the territory of the citadel is a cross-domed temple of the V century.
Juma Mosque
This mosque today is an important shrine for the followers of Islam in Russia. It is located in the very center of the historical part of the city and at the time of its construction (8th century) was the largest building of Derbent.
The Juma mosque was rebuilt several times. So, one of the inscriptions says that it was reconstructed after a strong earthquake. In the 15th century near it was built a madrassah. The formation of the mosque complex was completed only at the beginning of the 19th century.
During the Soviet era, a city prison was located in this building, and only in 1943 the Juma Mosque began to play its spiritual role.
Armenian Church of the Holy Savior
This church is one of the most important religious buildings of Derbent. Despite the fact that it was erected only in the 19th century. and suffered greatly during the Civil War, this building is one of the most interesting sights of Derbent. Today, the city museum is located in the building of the old Armenian church.
Other sights of Derbent (list)
- Art Museum of the city. Here everyone can get acquainted with beautiful examples of ancient Derbent applied art. In addition, the museum displays works by local artists.
- Ancient Bala Mosque.
- Minaret-mosque - today it is the only mosque in Derbent with a tower (minaret).
- Museum "Nature of the Caspian Sea".
- Monument to local soldiers who fell during the Second World War.
List of things to do in Derbent
- Explore the ancient sights of Derbent.
- See as many mosques as possible.
- Try local specialties.
- Visit the Museum of Applied Arts.
- Taste the famous Derbent cognac.
- Learn more about the history of the city.
- Visit the only liana forest in Russia (and possibly throughout Europe) in the vicinity of Derbent.
- Admire the amazing scenery.