Qiz Qalasi, also known as the Maiden Tower, is a historic tower located in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. The tower is an iconic symbol of the city and is considered to be one of the most recognizable landmarks in Azerbaijan.
The Maiden Tower is believed to have been constructed during the 12th century, although its exact date of construction and purpose remain unclear. Some scholars speculate that the tower may have served as a Zoroastrian fire temple, while others suggest that it was used as a watchtower or a defensive structure.
The tower is cylindrical in shape and stands at a height of around 29 meters (95 feet). It has eight floors, each with a height of approximately 3.5 meters (11 feet). The tower is made of stone and has a distinctive conical roof.
Over the centuries, the Maiden Tower has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a lighthouse, a military fortress, a prison, and a museum. Today, the tower houses a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Baku and Azerbaijan. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea. The Maiden Tower was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000 as part of the Old City of Baku, which is recognized for its outstanding universal value as a medieval Islamic city.