Recommended 4 Tourist Spots in the Nakhchivan Exclave of Azerbaijan!

In the Caucasus region, nestled between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, lie three small countries—Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia (formerly Georgia)—surrounded by the major powers of Russia, Turkey, and Iran. A closer look at the map reveals that one of them, Azerbaijan, has an exclave. This exclave is the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, whose capital is also named Nakhchivan.

Due to its geographical position, Nakhchivan has strong ties with Turkey, and within the city, you’ll find 12th-century Seljuk-era ruins that are even listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List. It is also a place of great religious significance, appearing in the Old Testament’s legend of Noah’s Ark. Here are four must-see spots to visit when traveling to Nakhchivan.

1. Historic Landmark Overlooking the City – Noah’s Mausoleum

According to the Book of Genesis in the Old Testament, Noah took pairs of all animals and his family aboard the Ark, surviving the Great Flood that lasted 40 days. Tradition holds that the Ark came to rest on Mount Ararat, which towers northwest of Nakhchivan.

Noah is said to have lived to the age of 950, and Armenian lore claims his tomb lies in present-day Nakhchivan. The original mausoleum was built in the 8th century, but over time it deteriorated, leaving only the base. In 2006, a new structure was added atop the remains.

From the blue staircase on the side of the building, you can enter the burial chamber inside the mausoleum. In the center stands a stone pillar, beneath which Noah’s relics are said to be buried. Depending on the light, the structure can appear as if it’s glowing gold, and its exterior decorations radiate a unique beauty.

From the hilltop where the mausoleum stands, you can enjoy sweeping views of Nakhchivan city and the majestic Caucasus mountain range.

2. Monument Bearing the Oldest Arabic Script – Momine Khatun Mausoleum

Quietly standing in the city center, the Momine Khatun Mausoleum is a symbol of Nakhchivan and is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List. Momine Khatun was the wife of Eldiguz, founder of the 12th-century Ildenizid dynasty under the Seljuk Empire. The mausoleum was built in 1187 by their son, Jahan Pahlavan.

Above the entrance is an inscription plaque bearing the oldest form of Arabic script, known as Kufic. The outer walls are adorned with interlocking star-shaped geometric patterns. On closer inspection, you can see delicate Kufic and Arabic ornamental work, combined with blue tiles at the top, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of the era.

Perched on a high point, the decagonal tower—standing about 27.5 meters tall—contrasts beautifully with the silhouette of the Caucasus mountains. This is a must-visit site for anyone interested in the glorious history of Nakhchivan.

3. Heavenly Highlands – Shahbuz State Reserve

Located northeast of Nakhchivan near the Armenian border, the Shahbuz State Reserve was established in 2003 to protect endangered species. It is home to wildlife such as brown bears, badgers, and lynxes, as well as birdwatching favorites like partridges and nightingales.

Along the highway, there are three small lakes, with Batabat Lake standing out for its deep, mysterious blue. Surrounded by mountain highlands, the lake’s serene atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time. If you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Caucasus during your trip to Nakhchivan, this is the perfect place.

4. Once a Palace, Now a Carpet Museum – Palace of the Nakhchivan Khans

Behind the Momine Khatun Mausoleum stands the Palace of the Nakhchivan Khans, once the residence of the rulers of the Nakhchivan Khanate, established in 1747. The Khanate was annexed by the Russian Empire in 1828, but the Khan’s descendants continued as cavalry officers in the imperial army, and the palace served as the military headquarters. The unique architecture blends Western, Asian, and Islamic influences, reflecting the Caucasus’ distinctive geography.

Since 1998, the palace has served as a Carpet Museum, housing over 300 carpets from various regions and eras. It also displays copperware, ceramics, traditional costumes, and numerous ethnographic artifacts, making it an excellent spot to learn about Nakhchivan’s history.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced some of the top attractions in the capital of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, an exclave of Azerbaijan. You can reach Nakhchivan by plane from Baku, the capital, or Ganja, the country’s second-largest city, or by bus from the Turkish side near Mount Ararat.

Although this region is little known, its ties to the legend of Noah’s Flood make it significant to world history. If you’re traveling through the Caucasus, be sure to include Nakhchivan in your itinerary.

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Recommended 4 Tourist Spots in the Nakhchivan Exclave of Azerbaijan!