The root of the word "Mahrasa" is "mah" which means "the moon" in Persian and the word "rasad" is used for the place where heavenly bodies are observed. "Rassad" is translated as "astrologer" from Arabic. Probably, the root of the word "mah" has kept its primary form, while "rassad" or "rasad" has become "rasa" in pronunciation. The temple is located 8-9 km southwards from Gadabay in the bottom of the woody mountains on the left bank of Shamkir River. Surrounding about one hectare area, it is encircled by a high fence shaved from the stone. Gate of the fence is in half-moon form shaved from stones and faces to Shamkir River. Gate is 2 meters wide and higher than that. Having strong structure and height, supports the opinion of temple’s being of defense importance. In all probability, there had been armed guards in the territory of the temple to prevent enemy attacks.

There are pillars and arches in the front side of Mahrasa. Stone shaved masks have been masterly used in the front and interior part of the temple. There are various inscriptions and patterns in the interior walls of the temple and different bas-relief human figures between the arches. It is supposed that these figures are the images of the Gods that they worshipped and or bas-relieves of the notable religious figures that were idolized. Gates and the fence of the temple resembles to the buildings in the ancient Rome. It seems the Greek captives in Albania have brought new form to the architecture of the country. Architectural style of the church tower built behind Mahrasa is also of historical importance. The walls of the foundation of the tower have been built from colored stones. The second floor of the tower consisting 8 pillars has been built with bricks. Top part of the pillars consists of several triangle-shaped covers. Probably, there had been a church bell in the tower. There is an altar known as "Black Stone" in one of the rooms of Mahrasa. It is supposed that the altar had been used in sacrifice rituals in the Moon temples of Albania before Christianity was adopted. Alban feudal lords headed by the ruler Urnayr accepted Christianity in order to strengthen their authorities at the beginnings of the 4th century. In order to spread Christianity, Urnayr ordered to build churches everywhere. Moon Temples became to be used as churches with some amendments as well.

There is an ancient cupol some 30-50 meters far from Mahrasa. Inside cupol are 5 joint graves. According to a story, the graves belong to 5 brave brothers. Story tells that once there were 7 brave brothers 5 of whom died in a bloody battle, and survived brothers buried them under this cupol. Images of sword, staff and inscriptions are represented on the grave.

Further, there is large graveyard located approximately 50 meters far from Mahrasa along with some other surviving large graveyards in this territory.

Telman Hagverdiyev. The monuments are the signs of History.