Alinja The Invincible Castle
Summer 2016
BY MARK ELLIOTT
“The Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan.” That is how some locals have described the site of Alinja Castle, whose recently restored ruins are likely to become one of the prime tourist attractions of Azerbaijan’s disconnected Nakhchivan exclave. The comparison has some merit. Like the Peruvian site, it sits way up an inaccessible peak and is distinctive for its various layers and stunning panoramic views. But its setting is on a stark crag rather than a lush green South American mountain. And unlike Machu Picchu you might have the whole place to yourself as I did in March 2016.
About the author: Mark Elliott is the author of the popular guidebook Azerbaijan whose 5th edition is published by TEAS Press and available at Libraff bookshops.
TOUR ITINERARY
You’ll get picked up
Alinja Castle
Ashabi Kahf Cave
Duzdag Salt Mine Cave
Fly via Baku to Nakhchivan
Very good English-speaking tour guide and vast knowledge of the area from a number of aspects, history, nature, daily life and etc. will take your from Nakhchivan International Airport to see one of the wonders of Nakhchivan / Azerbaijan Alinjagala – The Machu Picchu of Caucasus. The Ancient castle in Nakhichevan was a residence of Atabey dynasty of Azerbaijan in XIV century and one of the strongest and biggest fortresses in Middle Age East. Located on a mountain’s peak, Alinja fortress is now opened as a tourist attraction.
Location: Nakhchivan
Altitude: 1800 m
Founded: XIV century
Restored: 2014
State: Azerbaijan
Alinja fortress is one of the strongest defensive construction of the XII century. During Timur’s attacks to Nakhchivan in 1386, 1392 and 1399 the fortress served as a head quarter and place of treasure of the ruling Atabayler dynasty. Timur’s army occupied the fortress in 1401 after 14 years siege the fortress saw many conquerors, destroyed and rebuilt several times. The famous commander and Turco-Mongol conqueror Tamerlane (Timur) was admired by the majesty of Alinja and even came here to personally make sure that his troops seized the impregnable fortress. “Alinja” /Alin chak – means “take off your hand”, it is also related with the invincibility of the fortress.
Transfer to airport at 18:30
End of the Day
For Tour Inquiry:
Emial to: aliheydarp@yahoo.com