On May 8, Madam Ngo Phuong Ly, spouse of the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam visited Icherisheher (the Old City), which is listed among the world cultural heritage sites, APA reports.
The guest began her tour in Icherisheher with a visit to the historic architectural monument, the Maiden Tower. Madam Ngo Phuong Ly was informed about the history of the construction of the fortress walls.
It was stated that the Maiden Tower whose foundation was laid in the 7th–6th centuries BC was restored in the 12th century. The monument, with a height of 28 meters and a diameter of 16–16.5 meters, consists of a cylindrical-shaped main tower and a large buttress structure attached to it from the south.
The guest entering the fortress was given detailed information about the internal structure of the monument, its historical functions, and archaeological findings.
The visitor was very interested in the exposition located in the nearby Sıratağlı religious and architectural complex.
During the tour, Madam Ngo Phuong Ly was informed in detail about the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve, included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, as well as the ongoing restoration, landscaping, and conservation efforts. It was noted that rare historical architectural monuments from various centuries are preserved within Icherisheher.
The guest was also introduced to the "Dastan" brand at the Icherisheher Traditional Art Center. She was given detailed information about the brand’s projects aimed at preserving and promoting national heritage, as well as the handicrafts and artistic works on display.
Here, the Secretary General's spouse was presented with a souvenir bowl decorated with the Xaribulbul badge and Karabakh carpet ornaments as a commemorative gift.
During the tour, she was also informed about the Underground Bathhouse. A historical-architectural monument dating back to the early 17th century is located in the southeastern part of Icherisheher. Built from corner stones, the bathhouse reflects the traditions of urban bath architecture of its time through its architectural style and unique features.
Madam Ngo Phuong Ly was treated to freshly baked tandir bread during her visit.
She also visited the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a masterpiece of medieval Eastern architecture and a monument of global significance. It was noted that this historical complex, built in the early 15th century, is located at the highest point of one of the hills in Icherisheher. It is clearly visible from the Caspian Sea and the surrounding heights of the city. The complex continues to preserve its historical and architectural prominence to this day.
Madam Ngo Phuong Ly left Icherisheher with pleasant impressions.