Shamkir city gained its name from ancient equivalent fortress, ruins of which were stored in 20 km to the east of the town, nearby Mukhtariat village. Foundation of Shamkir town relates to V-VI centuries. In medieval ages, it was known with name like Shamkur. The town was allocated on Big Shamkir riverbank, being flown alongside Small Caucasus. Wealth of the city always attracted attention of foreign merchants and invaders. Following regular crushing defeat, staying alive not numerous population had left Shamkur and lied for the night in 9-10 km from the previous inhabited locality.