In the late autumn of 1667, the city of Shemakha experienced one of the deadliest earthquakes recorded in the Caucasus region. This significant event was characterized by severe seismic activity that resulted in a magnitude estimated at 6.9, causing extensive damage across the city and surrounding territories. Historical records indicate that Shemakha was a major cultural and economic hub in the region, known for its vibrant trade and architectural beauty. However, at approximately noon, the earthquake struck with intense force, shaking the ground and toppling buildings. 80,000 lives were tragically lost, leaving families devastated and the city in ruins.

Following the earthquake, the local government and citizens faced immense challenges. Relief efforts were hampered by the scale of destruction, complicating the ability to care for the injured and displaced. Various accounts from contemporary observers described the chaos and panic among the populace, with many people attempting to dig out loved ones from rubble. The aftermath also witnessed a notable shift in the architectural style and urban planning of the region, as authorities and inhabitants sought to rebuild using more earthquake-resistant designs.

This earthquake not only altered the physical landscape of the city but also held profound implications for the broader geopolitical context. The devastation it caused undermined the region's economy, leading to increased reliance on external aid and changing trade routes. The event remains a stark reminder of nature's power and the necessity for improved disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.