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EXPEDITIONS
Shamkir Archaeological Expedition

Written sources deal with Shamkir as a city in the period of conquests of Moslem countries. Shamkir City situated on Silk Way grew progressive at the second half of 9th century and 10th century; 

 

 

Development harmony of Shamkir City was spoilt by Mongolian conquest. Mongolians seized the city after 1235 persistent fight committed large massacre there and put the population to the sword. After this event the city regressed and could not come to itself. 
The ruins of medieval Shamkir City are located on left bank of Shamkirchay and in the north of Mukhtariyye Village of Shamkir region. The description of the monument proves its possessing all features specific for flat medieval cities. Topographic plan of the city taken in 2007 admits to determine the design structure of city like square.  
Large-scale archaeological excavations in medieval Shamkir City are implemented as a joint project of NASA Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography, Regions Development Social Organization and Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Azerbaijan Republic. 
Architecture and construction domains entered high development stage in Medieval Shamkir City. As a result of archaeological excavations too much construction rests, as well as engineering devices of fortifications, rests of civil edifices and city renovation were displayed. The finds revealed from the archaeological excavations are of various kinds: labour tools, guns, iron, metal products, ceramics, glass products, bone and stone products, decor items and coins.  
Archaeological excavations conducted in Shamkir City become important with achievement of new information on different stages of the city development; its defense system; dwelling houses and public buildings and home and economy of the residents. Shamkir Archaeological Expedition is being implemented conservation work in the edifices with high-threat of collapse. 
 
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