Shahrakan

Shahrakan (also spelled Shahrkan) was a medieval city located in the historical region of Arran, now part of Azerbaijan. It served as an important administrative and commercial center during the Islamic era, particularly under the Shirvanshahs.

Shahrakan's importance stemmed from its strategic location along key trade routes. The city was known for its skilled artisans and its production of textiles, including silk. Historical sources describe it as a prosperous and well-fortified settlement.

Over time, Shahrakan declined in importance, and its precise location remains a subject of scholarly debate. Some historians believe it was situated near the modern city of Shamakhi, while others propose alternative locations in the Shirvan region. Archaeological investigations are ongoing to further clarify the history and location of this once-significant urban center. The city's name suggests a connection to the concept of "royal place" or "urban center," indicative of its function within the political and economic landscape of medieval Arran.