Culture
Rasul Klychev will present the concert ‘Symphonic Pictures’ in Ashgabat
02.02.2026On 17 February, the State Symphony Orchestra of Turkmenistan, conducted by artistic director and principal conductor Rasul Klychev, will present a concert entitled ‘Symphonic Pictures’ to Ashgabat residents and guests of the capital. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The event will take place at the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre, starting at 7 p.m. The programme will feature well-known works by Russian composers: Modest Mussorgsky's ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’, combining a variety of musical images and the mood of artistic works; Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's symphonic picture ‘The Three Wonders’ and symphonic suite ‘Scheherazade’, the third part of which is called ‘The Young Prince and Princess’; Anatoly Lyadov's symphonic picture ‘Baba Yaga’, based on Russian folklore and legends. The concert will allow the audience to hear vivid symphonic works, filled with characteristic imagery, colour and musical drama, which reveal the richness of orchestral sound.
Kunya-Urgench — A Priceless Treasure of the Centuries-Old History of the Turkmen People and World Culture
01.02.2026The Turkmen people are among the ancient nations that have left a profound mark on the course of world history since early times. During the Middle Ages, Turkmens established states, khanates, beyliks, and atabegates not only within their historical homeland but also across various regions of Asia, Europe, and North Africa, playing a significant role in the political, economic, and cultural life of these territories. In that historical period, the Turkmen state of Kunya-Urgench emerged as one of the major centers that exerted considerable influence not only on the region itself but also on the cultural, economic, and political development of Southern and Central Asia. Kunya-Urgench is located in the northern part of Turkmenistan, within the territory of Dashoguz velayat, near the ancient course of the Amu Darya River, and represents a unique center where ancient urban planning traditions and historical-architectural monuments are concentrated. The state of the Turkmen Khwarazmshahs (Kunya-Urgench) appeared on the historical stage following the decline of the Great Seljuk Turkmen Empire. Until the thirteenth century, the city served as the capital of the Khwarazmshah state. Although its foundation dates back to the eighth–ninth centuries, the period of its widest expansion and greatest prosperity occurred between the eleventh and sixteenth centuries. Beginning with the reign of Sultan Malik Shah, this center gained strength and gradually transformed into an important hub of trade and cultural exchange. From the tenth century onward, Kunya-Urgench’s location along caravan routes passing through cities such as Urgench and Kichiurgench turned it into a major trading center between Asia and Western Europe. Cotton, textile products, wool, precious stones, and metal goods were produced here and exported to international markets. Its position at one of the key crossroads of the Great Silk Road further enhanced the city’s economic potential. Kunya-Urgench is an integral part of the unparalleled cultural heritage of the Turkmen people and of humanity as a whole, being an ancient city that encompasses rare examples of Islamic architecture. Its domed mausoleums, madrasahs, and the harmonious composition of architectural structures reflect a high level of artistic mastery. In the Middle Ages, Kunya-Urgench was recognized as a major scientific, cultural, and economic center and was referred to as the “Heart of Islam.” Throughout its history, the city experienced periods of flourishing as well as severe destruction; nevertheless, its architectural monuments have survived as a unique artistic legacy passed down to the present day. Culture and art occupied a special place in the state of Kunya-Urgench Turkmens. Historical sources particularly emphasize the hospitality, diligence, bravery, and strong civic engagement of the city’s inhabitants. In the fourteenth century, Urgench, through cooperation with the Golden Horde, achieved even greater cultural and economic development, leading to the establishment of madrasahs, libraries, and scientific centers. A clear testament to this is the Mamunid Palace, which, as a gathering place for scholars, came to be known as an “Academy.” The architectural art of Kunya-Urgench was distinguished by advanced construction techniques and a high aesthetic level. In the domed mausoleums and madrasahs built during the thirteenth–fourteenth centuries, original architectural solutions were widely employed. The Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh stands out in particular for its tent-shaped dome, square plan, and geometric ornamentation. The ribs integrated into the inner structure of the dome, the harmonious brickwork, and the use of blue-glazed bricks on the exterior surfaces attest to the high level of architectural craftsmanship of that era. At that time, architecture functioned not merely as construction activity, but as an important art form that united society in religious, social, and aesthetic dimensions. Spiritual and religious heritage also held special significance in the state of Kunya-Urgench Turkmens. The mausoleums of Sultan Ali and Najm al-Din Kubra were recognized as important centers of learning, and religious art. These structures were created not only as burial sites, but also as comprehensive cultural and spiritual complexes, distinguished by their geometric ornamentation, decorative painting, and domed architecture. The integrated harmony of the city’s water management system, markets, and caravan routes transformed Kunya-Urgench into a strategically important center of trade, culture, and politics. In 2005, Kunya-Urgench was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This ancient city stands not only as a historical center of the past, but also as one of the significant cultural, political, and tourist symbols of Turkmenistan in the modern era. The preserved architectural monuments and caravan routes serve to present Kunya-Urgench to the world as the heart of the Great Silk Road. Moreover, in October 2015, at a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the CIS countries held in Astrakhan, the city of Dashoguz in Turkmenistan was declared the “Cultural Capital of the CIS” for 2016. Based on this decision, the program “Cultural Capitals of the Commonwealth” was implemented in Turkmenistan. The program is aimed at strengthening cultural ties among the CIS member states, expanding cooperation, and creating favorable conditions for the development of economic and political relations. Under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the preservation, study, and promotion of historical and cultural heritage constitute one of the priority directions of state policy. In this regard, consistent efforts are being undertaken in world-significant historical centers such as Kunya-Urgench to restore architectural monuments, conduct scientific research, and present them at the international level. The measures implemented by the state not only ensure the protection of national heritage, but also further strengthen its place within the system of universal human culture. Thus, the history of the Turkmen state of Kunya-Urgench has entered the annals not only as the history of an ancient polity, but also as that of a major center that made a substantial contribution to the cultural, artistic, and architectural heritage of Central Asia. This sacred land, which preserved the scientific traditions of great scholars such as Al-Biruni and Ibn Sina, continues today to attract the attention of international researchers and tourists alike through its distinctive architecture, economic potential, and historical role associated with the Great Silk Road.
In 2026, Russia will host the Days of Culture of Turkmenistan
31.01.2026Russia will host Turkmenistan Culture Days in 2026. This was announced by Russian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Mihail Galuzin following meetings in Ashgabat with Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov and his Deputy Ahmet Gurbanov, according to IIC. According to Mihail Galuzin, the event will be one of the key events in humanitarian cooperation between the two countries. The parties also discussed the implementation of joint projects in the field of education and infrastructure. Among the priorities is the creation of a Russian-Turkmen university. There are also plans to expand the joint A.S. Pushkin School in Ashgabat by constructing an additional educational building. Another project will be the construction of a new building for the State Russian Drama Theatre. It is expected that this will expand the repertoire and improve conditions for the creative team. The negotiations confirmed the parties' interest in developing a long-term partnership.
A film about Magtymguly Pyragy's childhood, ‘Arzyman’, is being prepared for release
30.01.2026Turkmenistan is completing work on the feature film ‘Arzyman’, dedicated to the childhood of Magtymguly Pyragy. The film is being shot by the ‘Mekanfilm’ studio. The author of the project is director and screenwriter Charyyar Seyidov, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The film is being made against the backdrop of international interest in the poet's legacy following the celebration of his 300th anniversary in 2024. The project is not a biographical chronicle. It focuses on Magtymguly's early years, when the future poet lived in a village, herded cattle and took his first steps in creativity. To prepare for the film, the director studied archival materials and visited the Balkan velayat, the village of Gerkez, the poet's historical homeland. Filming took place in the mountains of the Lesser Balkan, in hard-to-reach locations, including natural caves. The film is titled ‘Arzyman’, which translates from Turkmen as ‘The Desired One.’ The film features a national melody of the same name. The film stars People's Artist of Turkmenistan Ovez Gelenov, Gulnabat Abdullayeva, Mekan Jumabayev and other actors. The role of Magtymguly as a child was played by schoolboy Denizhan Abdyrahmanov. The film is scheduled to be completed on 27 June, which is Culture and Art Workers' Day, as well as Magtymguly Pyragy’s Poetry Day.
Turkmen group ‘Galkynysh’ receives awards at Monte Carlo festival
26.01.2026From 16 to 25 January, Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco) hosted the 48th International Circus Festival. The national equestrian games group ‘Galkynysh’ was awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its contribution to the development of circus arts, reports AsmanNews. The ceremony was attended by Serdar Pygyev, the Head of the ‘Galkynysh’ Group of the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan, and Serdar Gurbangulyev, the General Director of the State Circus of Turkmenistan. They represented Turkmenistan as guests of honour. The ‘Galkynysh’ group was created in 2007. It has repeatedly won international competitions, including festivals in Moscow, Latvia, China, Kyrgyzstan and St. Petersburg. The group performs numbers that combine trick riding, acrobatics, and elements of national equestrian traditions. Performances take place at international festivals and cultural events. The certificates received in Monaco are further confirmation of the international recognition of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. The festival has been held since 1974 and is considered one of the leading international venues in the field of circus arts. It takes place annually in Monte Carlo.
In February, ‘Turkmenfilm’ is organising a National Film Week
25.01.2026To mark the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence, the Oguzhan ‘Türkmenfilm’ Association plans to hold a series of cultural events in the capital and regions, including conferences, creative meetings and a week of films made during the years of independence, according to the state news agency TDH. This was reported on 23 January at a government meeting by Bahar Seyidova, Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, when she presented the plan for the main events in February. The planned events include briefings, exhibitions, promotional and educational programmes, and musical programmes dedicated to the 2026 motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and Diplomatic Worker's Day. The State Symphony Orchestra will give a concert featuring melodies from Turkmen films at the ‘Mukam’ Palace of the State Cultural Centre, along with other celebrations. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov instructed that all events be held to a high standard.
Margush's archaeological discoveries reveal the life of ancient Turkmenistan
22.01.2026Turkmenistan is considered one of the world’s most ancient centers of civilization, and today the Margush monuments hold special significance as unique evidence of the Bronze Age. This was reported by the IIC. The Margian Civilization, which emerged more than four thousand years ago in the Murgab River delta, is comparable in its level of development to the cultures of Mesopotamia and Egypt and is recognized as one of the cradles of world civilization. The Margush settlement complex represented a network of fortified cities with well-planned layouts, developed infrastructure, and religious centers. A key role in this system was played by Gonur Depe, which served as the spiritual and administrative center of the region. Engineering technologies also reached a high level: systems of canals and reservoirs enabled effective water management and became prototypes of modern hydraulic engineering solutions. Archaeological discoveries testify to Margiana’s extensive trade relations with India and regions of South Asia long before the formation of the Great Silk Road. Today, the preservation and study of the Margush heritage are regarded as an important component of Turkmenistan’s cultural policy and a symbol of historical continuity.
A solo exhibition by artist Berdiguly Amansahetov has opened in Ashgabat
20.01.2026A solo exhibition by Berdiguly Amansahetov, a member of the Union of Artists of Turkmenistan, has opened in Ashgabat. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The exhibition includes over 110 paintings and graphic works. Among them are the works ‘Spring Melodies’ (2015), ‘At the Crossroads of the Great Silk Road’ (2018), a series dedicated to the work of Magtymguly (2024), works based on Alisher Navoi's poem ‘Seven Beauties’ (2023), the cycle ‘On the Feelings of Gazelles,’ inspired by the poetry of Fizuli (2022), as well as ‘Sounds of the Evening Dutar’ (2014) and others. Berdiguly Amansahetov is a member of the Artists' Unions of Turkmenistan and Russia, an Honoured Artist of the Republic of Khakassia and a laureate of the award for best stage design. His work focuses on Turkmen culture and Eastern themes. The artist's works are regularly exhibited in the Russian gallery ‘Khazine’. The master's works are based on classical Eastern literature and combine elements of symbolism and surrealism. Berdiguly Amansahetov's work has gained recognition in Turkmenistan and beyond. The exhibition will last ten days.
Turkmenistan presented an exhibition at the OTS Culture Week in Vienna
16.01.2026The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Austria took part in the Culture Week of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) at the United Nations Centre in Vienna. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event featured an exhibition dedicated to 2026 under the slogan ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The exhibition included traditional fabrics, national costumes, carpets, handicrafts, silver jewellery and artistic images of Ahal-Teke horses, demonstrating the richness of Turkmen craftsmanship and the cultural significance of horses. The opening was attended by the Secretary General of the OTS, representatives of the UN in Vienna, diplomats and invited guests. The embassy emphasised Turkmenistan's desire to develop cultural exchange and strengthen cooperation in the Turkic world.
Ancient Merv: Central Asia's open-air museum
15.01.2026The Merv Oasis is one of the key monuments of world civilisation, a unique archaeological complex where, for more than five thousand years, cities have successively emerged, reflecting the development of humanity from early agriculture to the era of empires. This was reported by the IIC. The phenomenon of ‘wandering cities’ associated with changes in the course of the Murgab River has turned Merv into a kind of open-air museum. The sites of the Ancient Merv Reserve, included in the UNESCO list, occupy an important place in the cultural policy of Turkmenistan. Archaeological discoveries by Viktor Sarianidi, Mikhail Masson and other scientists have confirmed the global significance of the region as a centre of Bronze Age civilisation. Today, the preservation and international presentation of this heritage are seen as the basis of cultural diplomacy and a symbol of the continuity of the country's historical development.
Turkmen artefacts reveal the secrets of the East to the Roman public
15.01.2026The exhibition ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ continues at the Capitoline Museums in Rome and will end on 12 April. The Italian press notes that the exhibition is perceived not only as a collection of artefacts, but also as a symbolic return of Parthia, a powerful rival of Ancient Rome, according to the news agency Orient. For the Romans, Parthia was a formidable force in the East, known for its horsemen and the legendary ‘Parthian shot’. Now, on Capitoline Hill, where triumphs over enemies were once celebrated, rivals meet again — but in an atmosphere of admiration rather than war. Of particular interest are the ivory rhytons from Old Nisa: they combine Hellenistic art and Eastern luxury, creating a unique style that is unparalleled in Rome. The preservation of these treasures inspires European viewers with respect for cultural continuity. Opened in October 2025, the exhibition continues to impress researchers and the public, demonstrating that Turkmenistan's heritage is an important part of world history. The meeting between the ‘invincible Parthia’ and Rome at the Palazzo Caffarelli was a truly unique experience.
Turkmenistan expanded international cultural cooperation in 2025
15.01.2026In 2025, declared the International Year of Peace and Trust, Turkmenistan hosted large-scale cultural events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The main focus was on preserving the national cultural heritage, developing the arts and expanding international humanitarian cooperation. These tasks were outlined by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, at an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 11 July 2025. The Head of State emphasised the need for systematic study and preservation of cultural values, development of libraries and museums, restoration of historical and cultural monuments, and support for creative initiatives. Throughout the year, international festivals, exhibitions, conferences, and forums were held in the country. The ‘Music of the World’ Festival and the ‘Music of Peace, Music of Friendship and Brotherhood’ Festival were held in Ashgabat. The Awaza International Dance and Folklore Festival, ‘Awaza – the land of friendship’, was organised in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. Days of Turkmenistan Culture were held in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, as well as Days of Foreign Countries Culture in Turkmenistan. Cooperation with UNESCO was actively developed. Ashgabat was accepted into the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. The nomination ‘The art of breeding Turkmen alabay’ was included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Work continued on the nomination of the monuments of the Great Silk Road to the UNESCO World Heritage List. As part of the State Programme for 2022-2028, archaeological research and restoration work has been carried out on historical and cultural monuments. Archaeological finds have been transferred to the State Museum of the State Cultural Centre of Turkmenistan and the Arkadag City Museum of History and Local Lore. Throughout the year, there was a Culture Week, creative competitions, concerts, and exhibitions dedicated to national and commemorative dates, as well as events celebrating 30 years of Permanent Neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust. The cultural events held in 2025 were aimed at preserving national values, supporting creative potential and strengthening international cultural dialogue.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
