Maiden Tower (Baku) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Maiden Tower
Qız Qalası
The Maiden Tower
Coordinates	40°21′58″N 49°50′14″E / 40.3661°N 49.8372°E / 40.3661; 49.8372
Location	Old City, Baku, Azerbaijan
Type	Tower
Height	29.5 m (97 ft)
Completion date	12th century

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Official name: Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshahs' Palace and Maiden Tower
Type:	Cultural
Criteria:	iv
Designated:	2000 (24th session)
Reference #:	958
State Party:	Azerbaijan
Region:	Europe and North America
Endangered:	2003–2009

The Maiden Tower, also known as Giz Galasi, is a very old tower in the Old City of Baku, Azerbaijan. It was built in the 12th century and was once part of the city's strong walls. This tower is a symbol of Azerbaijan's rich history. It shows how different cultures, like the Zoroastrians, Arabs, Persians, and Ottomans, have influenced the area over time.

Today, the Maiden Tower is one of Azerbaijan's most famous landmarks. It is even featured on the country's money, the Manat. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is very important to the world's history and culture. Inside the tower, there is now a museum where visitors can learn all about its past.

What is the Maiden Tower?
A Look Back in Time: Its History
Why is it So Important?
What Can You See Inside?
Images for kids
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What is the Maiden Tower?

The Maiden Tower is a tall, round stone tower. It stands about 29.5 meters (97 feet) high. Its walls are very thick, especially at the bottom, where they are about 5 meters (16 feet) wide. The tower is built on a rocky cliff right by the Caspian Sea. This location made it a great spot for defense in ancient times.

A Look Back in Time: Its History

The Maiden Tower was built in the 12th century. It was an important part of the Baku city walls. These walls protected the city from invaders. For hundreds of years, the tower stood strong, watching over the city and its people. It has seen many different groups of people rule Baku. Each group left its mark on the city and its culture.

Historians believe the tower might have had different uses over time. Some think it was a Zoroastrian temple, a place for fire worship. Others believe it was mainly a watchtower or a fortress. Its exact original purpose is still a bit of a mystery, which makes it even more interesting!

Why is it So Important?

The Maiden Tower is more than just an old building. It is a national symbol of Azerbaijan. It represents the country's long history and its strength. In 2000, the tower, along with the Shirvanshahs' Palace and the rest of the Old City of Baku, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means it's recognized as a place of special cultural importance that should be protected for future generations.

Being a UNESCO site helps protect the tower and teaches people around the world about its value. It also attracts many tourists who come to see this amazing piece of history.

What Can You See Inside?

Today, the Maiden Tower is a popular museum. When you visit, you can climb to the top and enjoy amazing views of the Caspian Sea and the Old City. Inside, the museum tells the story of the tower and Baku. You can learn about its history, its different uses, and the legends connected to it. It's a great way to step back in time and imagine what life was like centuries ago in Azerbaijan.