Turkmen artefacts reveal the secrets of the East to the Roman public

Turkmen artefacts reveal the secrets of the East to the Roman public
12 15.01.2026

The 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.