Culture
Turkmen–Russian archaeological cooperation enters a new stage
21.05.2026Turkmenistan, through which the Great Silk Road once passed, has since ancient times served as a connecting link between East and West and was one of the cradles of early civilizations. For more than 50 years, its archaeological heritage has been actively studied by Soviet and Russian researchers, who have made a significant contribution to the formation of a scientific school and the training of local specialists, according to the IIC. Among the key sites is Gonur Depe, the largest settlement of ancient Margiana, where excavations have uncovered unique architectural complexes, the earliest mosaics, and early evidence of horse domestication, confirming the high level of this civilization. An equally important discovery was the settlement of Yylgynly Depe, where workshops for producing clay figurines were found, reshaping views on the development of crafts in the prehistoric period. Significant results were also obtained from the study of Old Nisa, the center of the Parthian Kingdom, where royal archives and ritual vessels were discovered. Today, cooperation between Russia and Turkmenistan continues: restoration work is underway, findings are being systematized, and joint exhibition projects are being prepared aimed at popularizing the ancient heritage of the region.
Turkmen artisans presented traditional crafts at a festival in Armenia
21.05.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the 5th International Crafts Festival, held on May 16–17 in the city of Meghri, Republic of Armenia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmen artisans showcased traditional decorative and applied arts products. National jewelry, carpets, embroidery, and souvenir items attracted particular interest from visitors. As part of the festival, Turkmen bakhshi — performers of traditional folk music — also gave performances. The event was held under the slogan “Creative Community, Sustainable Future.” Craftsmen and artisans from Armenia, CIS countries, Georgia, and Iran participated in the festival.
Turkmen artists presented culture at a festival in Azerbaijan
19.05.2026From May 14 to 15, the 9th International “Xarı bülbül” Festival was held in the city of Shusha (Azerbaijan). Representatives of Turkmenistan took part in the event. According to the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, the country was represented by the folk group “Galkynysh” of the State Concern “Turkmengaz”. The ensemble performed at the festival and presented the musical heritage of the Turkmen people, showcasing its cultural diversity and traditions.
Turkmenistan Showcases National Art at Festival in Korea
19.05.2026The Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Korea took part in the “Central Asia Spring 2026” festival held in Seoul from May 16 to 17 under the auspices of the Korea–Central Asia Cooperation Forum and the Korea Foundation. This was reported by the IIC. The Turkmen side presented a national pavilion featuring handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional musical instruments. Diplomats from Central Asian countries and representatives of the South Korean government attended the opening ceremony. Turkmen Ambassador Begench Durdyyev highlighted the growing partnership between the countries of the region and the Republic of Korea, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming “Central Asia – Korea” summit scheduled for September 2026. The diplomat also noted that passenger flights on the Ashgabat–Seoul route have been operating since July 2025, while cargo transportation has been carried out since April 2023, contributing to the development of tourism, business, and educational ties. As part of the cultural program, audiences were shown the film “At-Murat” by director Vepa Ishanguliyev, посвященный традиции почитания Akhal-Teke horses — one of the symbols of the Turkmen people.
At Istanbul Bilgi University, the traditions and values of Turkmenistan were presented
17.05.2026On May 14, the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in Istanbul held a cultural event at Istanbul Bilgi University dedicated to the year’s motto: “Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan — the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses.” This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The event brought together representatives of the Turkmen diaspora, faculty members and students, as well as guests interested in the country’s culture. The main focus was placed on strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties and promoting the historical heritage of Turkmenistan. As part of the program, presentations were delivered on the national traditions, customs, and spiritual values of the Turkmen people. The organizers emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the development of intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.
Hero-Arkadag called for the development of inter-civilizational dialogue through culture
16.05.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov spoke at the forum of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Kazan and presented an initiative in the field of education and enlightenment. This was reported by the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. He proposed launching the program “Islamic Poetic Dialogue: Wisdom and the Connection of Centuries.” The project is aimed at popularizing the philosophical and literary heritage of the Muslim world—from antiquity to the present day. As a first step, it was proposed to create a “World Anthology of Islamic Poetry,” which would bring together works by poets, thinkers, and philosophers of the Islamic world. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted that humanitarian cooperation with ISESCO remains one of the priorities of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy. He also emphasized the country’s commitment to developing inter-civilizational dialogue and promoting humanistic values.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov proposed initiatives in the field of cultural heritage
15.05.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during his speech at the OIC forum, emphasized the special importance of preserving and enhancing the cultural and historical heritage of Islamic countries, as well as strengthening humanitarian cooperation based on shared spiritual and civilizational values, TDH reports. The Hero-Arkadag noted that cultural diversity and respect for traditions are key factors in sustainable development and mutual understanding between peoples. Particular attention was paid to the role of international organizations in supporting the cultural agenda. In this context, the activities of ISESCO were highlighted as an important platform for developing cooperation in the fields of education, science, and culture. The National Leader of the Turkmen people stressed that Turkmenistan attaches great importance to the preservation of historical and cultural heritage, including sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as intangible forms of traditional art such as carpet weaving, musical performance, and horse breeding culture. It was proposed to develop long-term international initiatives aimed at studying, preserving, and promoting the cultural heritage of the Islamic world, including the creation of joint scientific, educational, and digital projects, as well as expanding cultural exchange between countries.
Turkmen exhibits are featured at a textile exhibition in Washington
15.05.2026Representatives of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States visited the exhibition “Adornment of the Horse: Equestrian Textile as a Symbol of Power and Prestige” and watched the documentary film “Atlan,” organized by the George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The exhibition features examples of equestrian textiles from various countries, reflecting the historical and cultural role of the horse; Turkmen works are presented as an important part of the collection, showcasing national traditions and the country’s connection to equestrian culture. During the visit, a meeting was held with the organizers, where the preservation and promotion of equestrian heritage were discussed. It was noted that 2026 has been declared in Turkmenistan as the Year of “Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses.” It is also reported that a thematic exhibition catalog has been published, and the embassy expressed gratitude to the organizers for fostering cultural dialogue between countries and promoting Turkmen heritage.
Turkmen films received awards at the “Turan” film festival
13.05.2026Turkmen films have received awards at the international film festival “Turan,” held in Izmir (Republic of Turkey), according to TDH. The competition program featured more than 2,000 films from over 90 countries. Turkmenistan was represented by works from the “Türkmenfilm” Association named after Oguz Khan of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, as well as the “Mahabat” department. The film by Batyr Batyrov, “Ýeňişli ädimler,” received the “Red Apple” award in the “Best Feature Film” category. In the short film category, Mekan Gurbanaliev’s work “Mahir terbiýesi” was recognized. The Special Jury Prize was awarded to the animated film by Rovshen Velmiev, “Meniň oýnum.” The “Turan” film festival is organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey in cooperation with the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY). The forum aims to develop cooperation in the field of cinematography and promote the culture of Turkic peoples. Film industry representatives, actors, and experts from various countries participated in the event. The festival included screenings, discussions, and professional networking meetings. The participation of Turkmen films and the awards received reflect the expansion of international cooperation in the field of culture and cinema.
Turkmen specialists took part in a theatre festival in Trabzon
11.05.2026From May 1 to May 10, 2026, Turkmen specialists took part in the International Black Sea Theatre Festival “State Theatres – Trabzon-26,” held in the Turkish city of Trabzon. The forum was organized by the General Directorate of State Theatres under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Turkey. This was reported by the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The festival is held annually, and this year it took place for the 26th time. The program included 15 theatrical productions, 7 puppet shows for children, 3 exhibitions, 8 displays of stage costumes, and 2 professional conferences. Turkmen specialists were included in an international expert group. They evaluated performances, participated in discussions, master classes, and exchanged experience with foreign colleagues. Within the framework of the forum, representatives of Turkmenistan presented information on the development of theatre and circus arts in the country during the years of independence, as well as on modern cultural facilities and their technical equipment. Video materials were shown featuring performances and international achievements of Turkmen artists. Festival participants noted the importance of state support for culture in Turkmenistan and the development of international cultural ties. The potential of the A. Gulmammedov State Drama Theatre of Arkadag city was also presented. During the event, meetings were held between the Turkmen delegation and representatives of Turkish theatre institutions. Issues of cooperation, exchange of experience, and participation in international festivals were discussed. As a result of their participation, Turkmen specialists were awarded the festival cup and letters of appreciation for their contribution to the development of international cooperation in the field of theatrical arts.
A representative of Turkmenistan received an award at the Turkic literature festival
10.05.2026The representative of Turkmenistan, Maksat Meredov, took part in the 5th Festival of Literature and Books of the Turkic World, which was held from May 4 to May 9 in the Turkish city of Gaziantep. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was organized by the International Union of Turkic Writers under TURKSOY and brought together scholars, poets, and prose writers from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Hungary, Cyprus, and several other countries. As a result of the festival, Maksat Meredov was awarded the Yunus Emre Prize of the International Union of Turkic Writers.
A teacher from Lebap is developing a modern string art technique
07.05.2026Ahmet Khodzhaev, a teacher at the Children’s School of Arts in the Darganata etrap, is developing the “string art” technique in Turkmenistan — creating artistic images using colored threads and nails on a wooden base. This was reported by the publication “Turkmenistan: The Golden Age”. A graduate of the Lebap velayat specialized School of Arts, he began working in 2010. Over time, the educator became interested in the possibility of conveying images not with paint, but with threads, drawing on traditions of national decorative art. At first, he experimented with black-and-white compositions. His first work was a portrait of Magtymguly Fragi, created in the year dedicated to the poet. The project received an award at a regional competition and became a starting point for further work. Later, the artist moved on to colored threads. His palette mainly includes red, green, and blue, which he combines to create new shades. Among his notable works is an image of an Akhal-Teke horse, presented at a themed competition and exhibition in Ashgabat. The work attracted visitors’ interest. Khodzhaev continues to develop the direction, planning to create portraits, natural landscapes, and architectural sites of Turkmenistan. In parallel, he teaches students the new technique. According to the school director Ovezmyrat Berdyev, the teacher’s works and those of his students win prizes at competitions of various levels, including international online platforms. The “string art” technique, which originated in Europe in the 17th century, is now being developed in the country thanks to Khodzhaev’s initiative.
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