Derbent, in Dagestan, is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Russian Federation. The precise date of its foundation is lost in history, as the saying goes, but after surviving numerous attempts at its destruction, it still preserves much of its ancient character. Not many cities in the world can boast such a rich historical and architectural heritage.
The jewel in Derbent’s crown is the Naryn-Kala citadel, a magnificent stone complex built on a difficult site on a steep slope; and the symbol of the power of the rulers who lived in it. The role of the city’s peoples in the development of global civilisation was recognised in 2003 when its historic buildings were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognition which has enhanced its chances of being able to fund the conservation and restoration programme essential for the further survival of its ancient monuments. And it was recognised again by UNESCO in 2006 for its long record of religious tolerance, a city where Jews, Muslims, and Christians lived together in peace and co-operation.
View of Debent Naryn-Kala castle from the cemetery. CC Oleg Moro.
