Maiden Tower History
The Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası) in the Old City of Baku was built in the 12th century on the Caspian Sea. Since 2000, the Maiden Tower of Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This famous landmark is a national emblem represented on Azeri currency and official documents. A staircase from the north side leads to the roof of the eight-story tower, which may have been used as a lookout.
The architecture of the tower is influenced by Arabic, Ottoman, and Persian architecture. At its maximum capacity, the eight stories of the tower could accommodate up to 200 people.
The name of the Maiden Tower may mean different things. Legend tells of a maiden who jumped to her death from its top, and the tower’s name may also refer to its unconquered state.
Visit Maiden Tower and the Museum
It presently houses a museum and gift shop. At night during the Noruz festival, the brazier on the tower is lit.
Entrance to the tower costs around $2.5 USD and it is open from Mon-Sat between 11:00 AM to 19:00 PM. Once up in the tower, one can have a 360-degree view of the city of Baku.