32 best attractions of Derbent - the most complete overview

The history of Derbent, the oldest city in Russia, goes back centuries. It appeared on a narrow flat isthmus between the spurs of the Caucasus Mountains and the shores of the Caspian Sea more than two thousand years ago. Centuries passed, powerful powers arose and disappeared, but Derbent continued to exist without losing its significance, because possessing a citadel made it possible to control a key section of the Great Silk Road. The city grew and became a large trade and logistics cluster, the capital of the Khanate, annexed to the Russian Empire in 1813. In modern and recent times, the policy has developed as a center of the manufacturing industry. The sights of Derbent are of great interest to tourists, photos and brief descriptions of which are presented in the article. The historical center of the city is included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

Sights of Derbent

Derbent is one of the most underrated resorts. Here you will not see large crowds of tourists stopping at every attraction to take a few photos. In addition, the old city of Derbent is recognized by UNESCO as a World Human Heritage Site. Here you can have fun, observing picturesque views and architectural monuments. This city is made for long walks in the company of close friends or family.

This material will allow you to plan your trip in detail. You can create a route and decide which attractions of the city you want to visit. Thanks to this, you will definitely have time to see all the places that interest you.

Naryn-Kala Fortress, Derbent Wall, Underground Zindan Prison
Derbent Lighthouse, Juma Mosque, Kele-Numaz Synagogue
Derbent Baths, Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Armenian Church
House of Peter I, Derbent mahals, Bayat-Kapy Gate
Railway station building, "Grieving Mother" Memorial, Derbent Embankment
Crystal Bridge over Archaeology, Carpet and Decorative Arts Museum
Maiden Bath (Museum of Culture and Life of Ancient Derbent), Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions
Museum of Nature of the Caspian Sea, Park of Military Glory, House-Museum of Bestuzhev-Marlinsky, Spring “Shekhsalakh”
Mount Shalbuzdag, Khanag waterfall, Turagin natural bridge
Samur forest, Yagdyg fortress, Church of St. Grigoris
Kirkhlyar Cemetery, Lezgin Drama Theater, Museum of Military Glory

At the end of the article we have placed a map of Derbent with the attractions that we mentioned in the article marked on it. Using this map, it will be easier for you to navigate the area, and also, if you wish, you can develop your own travel route to the sights.

Naryn-kala citadel

In the 6th century, Sultan Khasrov the First ordered the construction of a powerful and reliable fortress on one of the hills of the Dzungarian ridge in such a way that it would block the passage to Transcaucasia. So this citadel appeared on 465 hectares, inside which a large container was built to store fresh water, which made it possible to withstand a long siege. Nevertheless, the impregnable fortress was defeated several times in its history.

What to see in Derbent - day 1

On the first day of your stay in Derbent, it is worth seeing the most famous places of this city. You will be able to visit unique architectural monuments that amaze with their beauty and majesty.

Sights will help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Derbent, enjoy its beauty and picturesqueness. While walking around the city, you should visit the Naryn-Kala fortress, the Derbent wall, the underground zindan prison, the Derbent lighthouse, the Juma mosque, the Kele-Numaz synagogue, the Derbent baths, the Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Armenian Church, the House of Peter I, the Derbent mahals and the Bayat-Kapa gate.

Naryn-Kala Fortress

The Naryn-Kala fortress is the most important attraction of the city. It was built in the 6th century. Over the course of a long time, the fortress was completed and rebuilt. Its buildings date back to different eras. The total area of this attraction is more than 4 hectares. The fortress includes the defensive wall of Dag-Bara, which has partially survived to this day. In addition, on its territory there is a Khan’s palace, baths from the 10th century and an office building from the 18th century.

This is a very beautiful and unique place that is very popular among tourists. The fortress is located on a hill. Around it there is a picturesque area that complements the colorful landscape.

Derbent wall

The Derbent Wall is an ancient fortification structure that was built during the reign of the Persian Sassanid dynasty. It belongs to the Naryn-Kala fortress. In ancient times, the main part of the city was located behind this wall. Most of the architectural landmark has survived to this day. Therefore, tourists can view more than 40 towers, several gates and large areas of brickwork.

The Derbent Wall will take you back many centuries. This attraction is recommended to visit for all travelers who come to Derbent. Here you can enjoy beautiful views of both the architecture and nature of the city.

In the very center of Derbent there are the best housing options, based on price and reviews:

Hotel Arbat. Rating: 9.4 based on 398 reviews. Price 1600 RUB.
Hotel GRAND. Rating: 9.7 based on 76 reviews. Price 1400 RUB.
Hotel SeaZone (First line). Rating: 9.5 based on 83 reviews. Price 1500 RUB.
Guest house "Cote d'Azur". Rating: 9.4 based on 66 reviews. Price 1100 RUB.

Underground prison-zindan

The underground prison-zindan is located in Naryn-Kala. This interesting structure resembles a jug. The walls of the prison are tilted upward to prevent prisoners from escaping. Its upper part is covered with a lattice, through which light and air passed into the building.

This place has an unusual and slightly creepy atmosphere. You will be able to see the prison, which is 11 meters deep, from the outside. Tourists are not allowed to go inside the premises. However, even such a visit to this attraction will make a mixed impression on you.

Derbent lighthouse

The Derbent lighthouse was built in the city in the mid-19th century. This 18-meter structure was damaged due to an earthquake that occurred in 1892. The lighthouse was also damaged in 1918 during the war. Later, this attraction was restored and returned to service.

Today the lighthouse remains operational. In 2007, new lamps were installed on it, so its light can be seen from afar. You can see this architectural monument while walking through the center of Derbent and enjoying the good weather.

Juma mosque

The Juma Mosque is the oldest mosque located in Russia. It was built in the 18th century. The Juma Mosque was built as the main religious center for Muslims living in the city. The building was rebuilt several times, so today it looks different than it did 13 centuries ago.

This complex includes the main building, a madrasah, several residential buildings, and a courtyard. You can visit all this, carefully examine it and save it in vivid photographs. The Juma Mosque is an amazing place that will remain in your memory for a long time.

Local residents will tell you about the city in as much detail as possible on these excursions:

Derbent with a sparkle. Rating: 5.0 based on 40 reviews. Price 6500 rub. (for 1-10 people)
Dream trip: Sulak Canyon and Sarykum Dune. Rating: 5.0 based on 30 reviews. Price 16,500 rub. (for 1-18 people)
Derbent - first meeting. Rating: 5.0 based on 59 reviews. Price 3700 rub. (for 1-15 people)
Derbent is a treasury of cultures and religions. Rating: 5.0 based on 16 reviews. Price 9100 rub. (for 1-4 people)

Kele Numaz Synagogue

The Kele Numaz Synagogue was built in 1914. In 2009, its building became very dilapidated, which is why they decided to dismantle it. A few months later, a new building was built on the site of the synagogue, which is an exact copy of the previous building.

Today the synagogue is operational. Believers pray here every day, but not everyone can visit it. On the facade of this architectural landmark you can see elements of historical decor, columns and a portal at the entrance to the synagogue.

Derbent baths

Derbent baths are a unique attraction, which is surrounded by markets, mosques and the remains of caravanserais. In the past, baths were the center of life for city residents. The baths that have survived to this day were formed during the 16th-19th centuries.

The baths are a rather unusual architectural monument. It attracts the attention of a large number of tourists. The baths transport tourists back several centuries. Here you will definitely be able to take a large number of interesting and bright pictures.

Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the main Orthodox church in Derbent. He has been working in the city since 1901. The temple is located in a historical building. Previously it was a Sunday school. In 2009, the church underwent a major renovation, thanks to which a new bell tower appeared here.

Today the temple is operational. It is located in a very beautiful and picturesque place. The church building is crowned with three golden domes. The interior of the temple is very simple: without unnecessary decoration. The church hosts services and also runs a Sunday school.

Armenian Church

An Armenian church was built in the city in 1872. That same year she received her first parishioners. During the Civil War, the temple was badly damaged, but later it was restored. Today this church can be seen by anyone. There is a Carpet Museum inside it.

The building of the Armenian Church is a valuable architectural monument. It has a very attractive appearance. The church is located in a beautiful and picturesque place. The temple perfectly complements the view. Tourists can view the church from the outside, as well as visit the museum exhibition located inside the building.

House of Peter I

The house of Peter I was built on the site of the dugout in which the Tsar stayed during his stay in Derbent. The house is a pavilion with a memorial inscription. In 2010, a large-scale reconstruction of this building was carried out.

This is a rather interesting place where tourists can see a fragment of the foundation of the dugout in which Peter I stayed. Not far from the house there is a museum building. It houses an exhibition containing a collection of archaeological artifacts that were found during excavations.

Derbent Magals

Derbent mahals are neighborhoods located in the historical center of the city. This part of Derbent is the oldest. It is adjacent to the Naryn-Kala fortress. Magals keep traces of different periods of local history. Here are old houses and the main attractions of the city.

Here you can stroll along the medieval streets and take atmospheric and beautiful photographs. After visiting the Derbent mahals, you will be able to see the Juma Mosque, the Maiden Bath and other historical buildings. There is also a house-museum where the Decembrist Bestuzhev-Marlinsky lived in exile.

Bayat-Kapy Gate

The Bayat-Kapy gate is a wall with loopholes and an arch that connects two semicircular bastions. The gate was erected during the time of Emir Maslam-bek Abdul-Malik. Today the building retains its majestic appearance. The gate towers impressively above tourists, attracting the attention of a large number of people.

You can visit this place while walking along the streets of the city. The attraction stands out effectively against the background of other architectural monuments. Here you can take beautiful and interesting photographs.

Juma mosque

Juma mosque in Derbent

The Republic of Dagestan

Derbent Juma Mosque is the oldest mosque in Russia and the CIS. It was built in the 8th century for general Friday prayers, and at that time it was the largest building in Derbent.

In the 14th century, the Juma Mosque was damaged by an earthquake. It was restored by Baku resident Tazhuddin: this is indicated above the entrance to the building. Until 1938, the mosque remained the main religious building of Derbent, and then the city prison was located here for several years. In 1943, the Juma Mosque was restored to the status of a temple and a historical monument. In the courtyard of the mosque there are four plane trees, which are more than a thousand years old. They were not planted here for beauty or to create shade: it is believed that the roots of the trees strengthen the soil and draw excess moisture from it, so the building does not suffer from dampness.

What to see and where to go in Derbent - day 2

You should devote the second day of your stay in Derbent to interesting architectural monuments, museums, parks and embankments. You will be able to enjoy the beauty of this city, learn its history, and examine in detail the most interesting buildings of Derbent.

You should start a walk around the city from the railway station building, the “Grieving Mother” memorial, the Derbent embankment, the Kirkhlyar cemetery, the crystal bridge over archeology, the Park of Military Glory, the Shekhsalakh spring and the Museum of Military Glory. If you want to learn facts from the culture and history of the city, be sure to visit the Museum of Carpet and Decorative Arts, the Maiden Bath (Museum of Culture and Life of Ancient Derbent), the Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions, the Lezgin Drama Theater, the Caspian Nature Museum and the House Museum Bestuzhev-Marlinsky.

Railway station building

The railway station building is one of the most beautiful and attractive architectural monuments in the city. The building was built in the city at the beginning of the 20th century. The facade of this building is made in pseudo-Russian style. The architectural monument can be visited while walking through the streets of the city. It is perfect for a photo shoot. You will be able to carefully examine all the details of this building and enjoy its beauty.

More housing options in the center of Derbent, by price and reviews:

Mini-hotel 1000 and 1 night. Rating: 9.4 based on 476 reviews. Price 1150 rub.
Hotel Shahristan. Rating: 9.4 based on 330 reviews. Price 1350 rub.
Main Street Apartments. Rating: 9.8 based on 969 reviews. Price 1550 rub.
Boutique hotel "Derbent". Rating: 9.5 based on 200 reviews. Price 1050 rub.

Memorial "Grieving Mother"

The “Grieving Mother” Memorial is a monument that was erected in the city on May 8, 2015. It consists of two granite steles. In front of them is a sculpture of a woman with the Eternal Flame at her feet. Cranes hover above the woman’s head, symbolizing the dead.

This memorial is worth a visit during your stay in the city. Its beauty attracts many tourists who want to learn more about the history of the city. You will be able to photograph the memorial, preserving the memories of visiting this place.

Derbent embankment

The Derbent embankment was opened in the city in 2021. It is a great place for evening walks with your friends. The width of the promenade is 130 meters, and its length is about one kilometer. On the embankment, tourists can find a rental office for sports equipment. There is also a children's playground here.

On the embankment you can stroll and enjoy the fresh air. There are bike paths, benches and fountains. In the evening the embankment is beautifully illuminated. In summer there are also food sales points where you can buy something for a snack.

Kirkhlyar Cemetery

The Kirkhlyar cemetery is a preserved ancient complex of burials that date back to the 7th-9th centuries. According to legend, Arab warriors who fell during the Battle of Derbent in 643 AD are buried here. Historians say that 40 graves date back to this period. It is because of this that the complex is named “Kirkhlyar”, which translated into Russian means “forty”.

Ancient tombstones have been preserved in the cemetery: blocks of shell rock. Texts were carved on them. Today, only traces of inscriptions remain from them. This place is worth seeing with your own eyes. Kirkhlyar has the status of a protected historical monument. In addition, it has religious value for Muslim believers.

Crystal Bridge over Archeology

The Crystal Bridge over archeology was built in Derbent in 2013. It is located above the city's water supply system, discovered during archaeological excavations. The bridge attracts the attention of tourists with its unusual appearance. The architectural monument is located in a very picturesque part of the city. The bridge is perfect for unusual and interesting photographs. Here you can take a walk and enjoy the beautiful views. The Crystal Bridge will definitely surprise you, leaving the most pleasant impressions.

Carpet and Decorative Arts Museum

The Museum of Carpets and Decorative Arts stores examples of folk crafts that were created by the residents of Derbent and its environs. The museum has been operating since 1982. In it you will get acquainted with local arts and crafts. This is a very interesting and atmospheric place. The museum houses many interesting exhibits that you can carefully examine. The museum will be of interest to both adults and children.

Maiden Bath (Museum of Culture and Life of Ancient Derbent)

The Maiden Bath (Museum of Culture and Life of Ancient Derbent) was built in the 19th century. They were visited by unmarried girls. Local women came here before their wedding. These baths were in working order until the 1950s. Today there is a museum inside them. Its exhibition is dedicated to the culture and life of ancient Derbent.

This is a very interesting and exciting place. Here you can get to know the history and life of Derbent better. The museum is open to tourists, so you can freely come to it and carefully examine the exhibition.

Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions

The Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions was opened in the city in 2014. It is dedicated to world religions and cultures. The museum contains classic museum exhibitions, venues for events and scientific research. This museum will allow you to plunge into the history of Derbent. It contains a variety of interesting exhibits that will interest any tourist. The museum is perfect for spending time with friends or family.

Lezgin Drama Theater

The Lezgin Drama Theater moved to Derbent in 1949. Its history began in 1906, when theater groups appeared in the Dagestan village of Akhty. The Lezgin Drama Theater has become one of the most famous city cultural institutions.

This place is perfect for art lovers. Anyone can get acquainted with the theater's poster and choose an interesting performance. The theater stages performances based on the works of local authors, as well as other famous playwrights.

Caspian Nature Museum

The Caspian Nature Museum is a local history museum that has been operating in the city since 1993. There are halls here that are dedicated to the inhabitants of the sea, forest, steppe, as well as migratory birds. The museum also displays now extinct species of birds and animals. This place is perfect for spending time with the family. You will learn many interesting facts about the fauna. Here you can also take unusual photographs with museum exhibits.

Park of Military Glory

The Park of Military Glory is dedicated to the residents of Derbent who participated in the Great Patriotic War. More than 5 thousand city residents died during the hostilities, more than one and a half thousand local residents received military awards. The park was reconstructed in 2015. After this, the “Grieving Mother” memorial appeared here.

This park is perfect for quiet evening walks. There are benches, lawns, and walking paths here. In addition, not far from the park there is a recreation area where you can find attractions, playgrounds and cafes.

House-Museum of Bestuzhev-Marlinsky

The Bestuzhev-Marlinsky House-Museum is a place that can tell you about the Decembrist, who, after his exile to Siberia, spent several years in this city. The museum exposition tells about the Caucasian period of Bestuzhev’s life. Here you can learn about his works, which were written by him in Derbent. In addition, museum visitors are invited to listen to an interesting lecture, explore the rooms of the house, and also look at the collection of antique utensils.

This is a rather interesting place where you can learn a lot of interesting things about the life of this historical figure. The museum is perfect to brighten up your stay in Derbent. You will be able to carefully examine all the exhibits and save them in photographs.

Spring "Shekhsalakh"

The Shekhsalakh spring is one of the most ancient fountains in the city. It was opened sometime in 1708-1709. The spring is located in a very picturesque and beautiful place. Here you can get water and taste it. The spring is decorated very beautifully and interestingly. Even in the most intense heat, the water here remains cold. This place can be visited while walking along the streets of the city.

Museum of Military Glory

The Museum of Military Glory is perfect for people who are interested in the topic of war. The museum exposition will tell tourists about the most important events of the Great Patriotic War, the Afghan and Chechen wars. Visitors will also be told about the 345th Infantry Division created on Dagestan soil. In this museum you can learn many interesting facts about the difficult events that the city had to endure. This place is perfect for visiting with the whole family. The museum will definitely leave the most pleasant impressions.

House of Peter I

House of Peter I in Derbent

Derbent

The house of Peter I in Derbent is a small earthen hut where the emperor stayed during the Persian campaign in 1722. For a long time, the dugout was a kind of shrine for the residents of Derbent. In 1848, Prince Mikhail Vorontsov, governor of the Caucasus, ordered a fence made of stone pillars and anchor chains to be built around the hut. Later, instead of a fence, a pavilion was built. This place was visited by members of the imperial family and other famous people, including the writer Alexandre Dumas.

In Soviet times, the house of Peter I was not given any attention as a historical monument. The dugout gradually sank underground; a canteen was first opened in the pavilion for workers of the industrial plant, and then it was rebuilt into a residential building.

The building was given the status of a museum complex in 2015. During the excavations, the emperor's hut was partially restored. The colonnade above it was restored, and a monument to Peter was erected nearby and a modern museum was built. The exhibition is based on items discovered during excavations: ancient coins, bullets, crosses, fragments of weapons.

What to see in the vicinity of Derbent

The surrounding area of the city is filled with very interesting and beautiful places. Here you will find a variety of natural attractions that can surprise the most experienced travelers. You will be treated to beautiful and picturesque views that you will definitely want to preserve in vivid photographs. In the surrounding area you should visit Mount Shalbuzdag, Khanag Waterfall, Turagin Natural Bridge, Samur Forest, Yagdyg Fortress and the Church of St. Grigoris.

Mount Shalbuzdag

Mount Shalbuzdag is a natural landmark that has long been revered by Muslims. You can visit it either independently or during a tour. The mountain offers incredible natural views. You will be able to see endless space, mountain peaks and icy slopes.

Climbing Mount Shalbuzdag, you will feel incredible delight. This attraction amazes with its beauty. Local residents advise traveling to the mountain with a guide. If you are going to visit this attraction on your own, you should be very careful.

Khanaga waterfall

Khanaga Waterfall is an incredibly beautiful place located in the vicinity of Derbent. The height of its water cascade is 30 meters. At the bottom of the waterfall there is a clean lake where tourists love to swim. The natural attraction itself is located in the center of a foothill forest.

This is a very beautiful and memorable place. The waterfall attracts the attention of all tourists, striking with its grandeur. Here you can spend time near the lake or swim in the cool water. In addition, you will definitely take with you a large number of beautiful and vibrant photographs.

Turaginsky natural bridge

Turaginsky natural bridge is a unique place, which is located in the settlement of Turaga. It is a huge stone arch 100 meters long and 5.5 meters wide. The bridge is located over a valley that deviates from the main body of the mountain. This is a very beautiful place that every tourist is advised to visit. It can pleasantly surprise even the most experienced travelers. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature, silence and fresh air.

Samur forest

The Samur forest is located in the delta of the river of the same name. Here you can have a pleasant time enjoying an untouched natural attraction. In the forest you will find many sources of clean water, various species of trees, and evergreen vines. In addition, this place is home to various birds and fish.

You can take a pleasant walk through the Samur Forest, enjoying the sounds of nature and the beauty of green trees. This place is perfect for a family holiday. A visit to this attraction will leave you with only the most pleasant impressions.

Yagdyg Fortress

The Yagdyg fortress is located near the waterfall in the village of Khuchni. It is the last fortress of a series of mountain fortifications that stretched 40 kilometers from Derbent. This architectural structure may date back to the 6th-7th centuries. The fortress received its name thanks to a popular ancient legend. The attraction is located in a very beautiful and picturesque place. The fortress attracts the attention of tourists with its unusual and attractive architecture. Here you will definitely take beautiful and memorable photos.

Church of St. Grigoris

The Church of St. Grigoris is a unique architectural landmark located in the village of Nyugdi. The church was erected in 1916. It is dedicated in the name of the Bishop of Iberia and Albania, who was killed in the 4th century. The church is a wonderful example of Armenian religious architecture. This attraction is very popular among travelers. The church is located in a picturesque area. Here you can stroll, enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of the architectural monument.

Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The only Orthodox church in the city was built at the end of the 19th century as a parish school. A little later a church and a bell tower were built. After the revolution until 1943, the temple was inactive. Now the church has a new iconostasis and all the required services for parishioners are held.

Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions

The new museum appeared in 2014 and is intended to tell about the time when the city was multinational and crowded. Here you can see all the national costumes typical of the townspeople, household items and paintings reflecting life in the ancient city. Excursions are often held for children of primary and secondary school age.

Derbent embankment

A beautiful embankment with many walking areas and places for recreation and entertainment with children was equipped for the 2000th anniversary of the founding of the city. The total area is approximately 7.5 hectares, and the length of the embankment is almost a kilometer.

Lezgin Drama Theater

At the beginning of the last century, the first theater group appeared in the city, whose performances took place in villages and fortresses. For a long time, only men could visit them because the clergy opposed allowing women there. In 1928, the circle received its own building and began to be called a theater. Now it is the favorite theater of the townspeople.

Ruins of an ancient Christian temple

In addition to vivid evidence of Islam, architectural buildings have been preserved in Derbent, indicating that Christians once lived here.

The city contains the ruins of the oldest Christian temple, built in the 300s. Later it was destroyed, turned first into a Zoroastrian sanctuary, then into a Muslim temple. This Christian church is recognized as the very testimony of Christians on the land of Dagestan.

Kirkhlyar Cemetery

An old historical cemetery. Burial place of local residents from the 7th and 9th centuries. The cemetery appeared in the 7th century. During the next Arab campaign against Derbent, around 643. There is a legend that the first to be buried in the cemetery were 40 warriors who fought against infidels to convert them to Islam.

The dead Arab warriors became martyrs and were buried in the newly formed Kirkhlyar cemetery. In modern Dagestan, the cemetery is not only a historical monument, but also the main Muslim shrine of Dagestan. According to tradition, for many years only holy people who committed heroic deeds for the faith were kept in the cemetery.

Here in the cemetery there is a so-called “ swinging stone ”. This relic helps families find children. In order for a child to appear in the family, the spouses must shake the stone together on both sides.

Office

Next to the Khan's palace is the so-called Khan's Office. This is the building that is located above the main gate of the fortress. It is a whole building with service and ceremonial rooms, a reception room for the khan. A trial was held here at the end of the 18th century. Over time, the office was destroyed, and it was restored only in the 60s of the twentieth century.

Carpet and Decorative Arts Museum

It was decided to convert the empty building of the former Armenian church from the late 19th century into a carpet art museum in 1982. But besides this, here you can see exhibits made of silver, wood and other materials made by local craftsmen in past centuries. Jewelry and weapons are the real wealth and pride of the museum.

Synagogue "Kele-Numaz"

The multinational city allowed various religious communities to build their own churches, so in 1914 a synagogue appeared in the Jewish quarter. A little over ten years ago, the building needed serious restoration, and it was done in an interesting way. The structure was completely dismantled and rebuilt using modern and some old materials. This way we managed to preserve the historical appearance.