# Şəmkir

> city in Azerbaijan

**Wikidata**: [Q390783](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q390783)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shamkir_(city))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/smkir

## Summary
Şəmkir is a city in Azerbaijan, serving as the capital of Shamkir District. It has a rich history dating back to at least the 5th century and has undergone several name changes, including Annenfeld and Şamxor, before adopting its current name in 1991. The city is known for its cultural heritage, strategic location, and role as an administrative center in the region.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Şəmkir is located in the Shamkir District of Azerbaijan, with coordinates approximately 40.8564° N, 46.0172° E.
- **Population**: The city's population was 40,600 in 2015, with historical records showing 2,169 in 1926, 3,534 in 1939, 9,166 in 1959, 11,657 in 1970, 21,965 in 1979, 27,917 in 1989, and 67,700 in 2012.
- **Elevation**: The city sits at an elevation of 450 meters above sea level.
- **Time Zone**: Şəmkir operates in the UTC+04:00 time zone.
- **Official Language**: Azerbaijani is the official language of Şəmkir.
- **Historical Names**: The city has been known by various names, including Annenfeld (1818–1914), Annino (1914–1924), Şamxor (1924–1991), and Shamkhor (1924–1991).
- **Twin City**: Şəmkir is twinned with Marneuli, Georgia, since 2022.
- **First Written Record**: The earliest written record of Şəmkir dates back to 401 CE.
- **Website**: The official website of Şəmkir is [http://www.shamkir-ih.gov.az/](http://www.shamkir-ih.gov.az/).
- **Postal Code**: The postal code for Şəmkir is AZ 5700.
- **Geographic Identifiers**: The city has a GeoNames ID of 585152 and a Who's On First ID of 85668233.

## FAQs

**What is the history of Şəmkir's name changes?**
Şəmkir has undergone several name changes throughout its history. It was known as Annenfeld from 1818 to 1914, Annino from 1914 to 1924, and Şamxor (or Shamkhor) from 1924 until 1991, when it adopted its current name, Şəmkir.

**What is the population of Şəmkir?**
As of 2015, Şəmkir had a population of 40,600. Historical population data shows significant growth over the decades, with notable increases in the mid-to-late 20th century.

**Where is Şəmkir located?**
Şəmkir is located in the Shamkir District of Azerbaijan, with geographic coordinates of approximately 40.8564° N latitude and 46.0172° E longitude. It is situated at an elevation of 450 meters above sea level.

**What is the official language of Şəmkir?**
The official language of Şəmkir is Azerbaijani, reflecting its location within Azerbaijan.

**What is Şəmkir's relationship with other cities?**
Şəmkir is twinned with Marneuli, a city in Georgia, with the twinning agreement established in 2022. This relationship fosters cultural and administrative ties between the two cities.

## Why It Matters
Şəmkir plays a significant role as an administrative and cultural center in Azerbaijan. Its long history, dating back to at least the 5th century, highlights its enduring importance in the region. The city's strategic location, population growth, and cultural heritage contribute to its relevance in both historical and contemporary contexts. Additionally, its twinning with Marneuli underscores its role in fostering international relationships and cultural exchanges.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: Şəmkir has a documented history dating back to 401 CE, making it one of the older settlements in the region.
- **Name Changes**: The city has undergone multiple name changes, reflecting its evolving cultural and political landscape.
- **Population Growth**: Şəmkir has experienced significant population growth, particularly in the 20th century, indicating its development and importance.
- **Twinning Agreement**: The city's twinning with Marneuli, Georgia, highlights its role in international cultural and administrative exchanges.
- **Administrative Role**: As the capital of Shamkir District, Şəmkir serves as a key administrative center in Azerbaijan.

## Body

### History
Şəmkir has a rich history that dates back to at least 401 CE, as evidenced by the earliest written records. The city has undergone several name changes, reflecting its cultural and political evolution. From 1818 to 1914, it was known as Annenfeld, a name that likely reflects German influence during that period. Between 1914 and 1924, the city was called Annino. From 1924 to 1991, it was known as Şamxor (or Shamkhor in Russian), before adopting its current name, Şəmkir, in 1991.

### Geography and Location
Şəmkir is located in the Shamkir District of Azerbaijan. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 40.8564° N latitude and 46.0172° E longitude. The city is situated at an elevation of 450 meters above sea level, which contributes to its climate and landscape. Şəmkir is part of the broader region of Azerbaijan, which has a diverse geography ranging from mountainous areas to lowland plains.

### Population and Demographics
The population of Şəmkir has grown significantly over the years. In 1926, the city had a population of 2,169, which increased to 3,534 by 1939. By 1959, the population had grown to 9,166, and it continued to rise to 11,657 in 1970, 21,965 in 1979, and 27,917 in 1989. The population reached 67,700 in 2012 and was recorded as 40,600 in 2015. This growth reflects the city's development and its role as an administrative and cultural center.

### Administrative Role
Şəmkir serves as the capital of Shamkir District, making it a key administrative center in Azerbaijan. The city's official website, [http://www.shamkir-ih.gov.az/](http://www.shamkir-ih.gov.az/), provides information and services related to its administrative functions. The postal code for Şəmkir is AZ 5700, which is used for mail and other official communications.

### Language and Culture
The official language of Şəmkir is Azerbaijani, which is widely spoken throughout the city and the broader region. The city's cultural heritage is reflected in its history, architecture, and traditions. Şəmkir's twinning with Marneuli, Georgia, since 2022, highlights its role in fostering international cultural and administrative exchanges.

### Geographic Identifiers
Şəmkir has several geographic identifiers that are used for mapping and administrative purposes. The city has a GeoNames ID of 585152 and a Who's On First ID of 85668233. These identifiers are used in various geographic information systems and databases to uniquely identify the city.

### Notable Features
Şəmkir is known for its historical significance, population growth, and administrative role. The city's long history, dating back to at least the 5th century, highlights its enduring importance in the region. Its strategic location, cultural heritage, and role as an administrative center contribute to its relevance in both historical and contemporary contexts.

### International Relationships
Şəmkir is twinned with Marneuli, a city in Georgia, with the twinning agreement established in 2022. This relationship fosters cultural and administrative ties between the two cities, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

### Additional Information
Şəmkir is also known by several aliases, including Shamkhor, Annenfeld, Shamkir, Шамхор, Анненфельд, Аннино, and شمكير. These aliases reflect the city's diverse cultural and linguistic influences. The city's official name, Şəmkir, was adopted in 1991, marking a significant milestone in its history.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.newsgeorgia.ge/u-marneuli-gardabani-bolnisi-i-dmanisi-pojavilis-pobratimy-v-azerbajdzhane/)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. 1926 Soviet census
4. 1939 Soviet census
5. 1959 Soviet census
6. 1970 Soviet census
7. 1979 Soviet census
8. 1989 Soviet census
9. GeoNames