Ilham Aliyev reviewed progress of renovation and restoration at the Ashagi Karavansaray complex in Shaki

As part of a visit to Shaki, President Ilham Aliyev has reviewed progress of renovation and restoration at the Ashagi Karavansaray complex.

Culture and Tourism Minister Abulfaz Garayev informed President Ilham Aliyev that the 19th century Ashagi Karavansaray complex in Shaki, a region rich in ancient monuments, is the oldest caravansary in the Near East. The renovation and restoration work under way at the complex is evidence of the caring attitude of the government to the country’s history. Reflecting an architectural style characteristic of Shaki and covering an area of 8,000 square meters, this historical building has more than 200 rooms.

The head of state examined a stand describing the previous condition of the complex, progress of renovation and restoration and the future appearance of the complex.

It was indicated that restoration work commenced in January 2010 and is carried out according to a specific project. The renovation and restoration work is scheduled for completion in December this year. The first stage of the work is currently under way.

It was mentioned that a total of 30 vaults, 5.2 meters in length and 4.3 in width, have been installed and the roofing of 5,197 square meters replaced and tiled. Additionally, the roofing area of 5,200 square meters has been cleaned and reconstructed. A total of 3,146 square meters of façade area, 16,428 square meters of interiors and vaults have been cleaned from old plaster. Supporting walls, 2.5 meters high and 175 meters in length, have been built. An area of 5,280 square meters has been covered with bricks, while 3,082 square meters have been covered with wooden beams and floors. Balconies have been restored, while eight gates, 170 windows and 128 doors replaced. Besides, 32 balcony vaults have been restored. There is a total of 253 rooms together with the basement here.

The President was informed that the second stage of the renovation and restoration at the Ashagi Karavansaray complex envisages the construction of a hotel for 60-80 people. This is the first time the complex has been renovated on a large scale.

President Ilham Aliyev gave instructions and recommendations on completing the construction and restoration in a quality manner and using the caravansary in the future.