Tourists visiting Sheki traditionally explore the Khan's Palace, the Caravanserai, and other historic sites in the city center, enjoy local cuisine, and purchase unique artisanal products. However, many visitors leave Sheki without fully understanding its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation or appreciating its valuable cultural heritage landmarks.
To enhance awareness of Sheki's universal heritage values among both locals and tourists, the "ICOMOS Azerbaijan" Public Union is undertaking a new project. Funded by the State Tourism Agency, the project titled "Promotion of Sheki's World-Important Architectural Monuments and Creation of a Tourism Route" involves developing a specialized tourism route that encompasses Sheki's global heritage values and significant landmarks.
During a presentation held in Sheki as part of the project, the chairperson of the organization, Sheyda Allahverdiyeva, discussed the project's activities and provided detailed information about its specifics. She also addressed questions regarding the large-scale programs she has previously implemented. Following her presentation, Mammad Ahmadov, Director of the "Upper Bash" National Historical and Architectural Reserve, shared insights into the reserve’s history, activities, and efforts to protect historical and cultural monuments within its territory. Farid Mustafayev from the Sheki Regional Tourism Department talked about tourist interest points and the measures taken to attract visitors to the tourism routes.
The event concluded with a Q&A session for attendees.
Additionally, as part of the project, an exhibition titled "Promotion of Sheki's Exceptional Universal Values" was held at the Upper Caravanserai in Sheki in October. The two-day exhibition featured posters depicting the initial outlines of Sheki's historical architectural monuments.
