370km north-west of Baku, on the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains, lies the town of Sheki, one of the oldest centres of culture in Azerbaijan, founded more than 2,700 years ago. A high spot of any visit to Azerbaijan, Sheki is a charming town with a sea of old tiled roofs and fresh mountain air.

In the 18th century a local ruler declared it the centre of a new Khanate. His summer palace and a riverside fortress are still standing. The palace was built without using a single nail and is interesting for its frescoes, typical Azeri shebeke windows and mosaics. Other sights include the history museum, the medieval caravanserai which has been restored and is now a hotel, and the house of craftsmen. Works of Shekian jewellers, potters, engravers and pastry cooks are famous throughout the region.

You will need to set aside a minimum of 2 days to visit Sheki from Baku and there are many interesting towns and villages on the way.