Ganja Gate

A historic iron city gate associated with the medieval city of Ganja in western Azerbaijan, dating from the early 12th century. The original wrought-iron gate was carried off as a trophy after the city was captured, and it has long stood far from its home, becoming a symbol of the city's medieval prominence. A replica now marks the heritage in Ganja itself. The gate recalls the era when Ganja was a flourishing centre of trade and culture, the birthplace of the celebrated poet Nizami, and a prize contested by rival powers.