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The culture of Turkmenistan holds an almost hypnotic allure with its raw and matchless authenticity. Influenced over time by ancient Iranian empires, Turkic nomadic tribes, the sedentary peoples of nearby Bukhara and the inhabitants of the Caspian Sea coastline, the customs formed across Turkmenistan’s fierce expanse have proudly survived the sands of time. The unique traditions of Turkmenistan can now be appreciated on a journey to this least-visited country in Central Asia, where tourists can ride a purebred Akhal-Teke horse, hear the exotic strumming of a gidjak, enjoy a traditional bakhshi performance, buy a Turkmen headscarf and stand in awe of the centuries-old carpet weaving process.
Turkmen Akhal-Teke Horses
Turkmen Akhal-Teke horses are among the rarest and most highly prized breeds in the world. Believed to be descended from the extinct Nisean horse of modern-day Iran, their name is a reference to an oasis called Akhal and a local tribe known as the Teke. These one-owner stallions have been the tireless helpers of local nomads and soldiers for centuries, yet their value goes beyond speed and agility: Graceful, thin-legged and beautiful, they look like statuettes come to life. In the 20th century, the Akhal-Teke horse gained international renown after proving its abilities in international competitions, and one even joined the stables of Queen Elizabeth II. A cultural treasure, Turkmenistan now has a national holiday dedicated to this stately steed. Tourists can visit stables near Ashgabat to take riding lessons and admire these luxurious animals.
Turkmen Carpets
Turkmen carpets are as much a symbol of Turkmenistan as tulips are of Holland and cigars are of Cuba. Historically, nomadic tribes have used carpets as prayer rugs, decorative items, wardrobes, beds, heating for yurts and padding for camels. Carpet weaving skills have been passed down from mother to daughter for generations, and in addition to following specified techniques, the women must be careful in their selection of quality materials and dyes. Turkmen carpets are defined by their strict geometric patterns and varying shades of red, yet each tribe employs an individual design and unique ornamentation that is not duplicated elsewhere. Every rug takes an astonishing amount of time and incredible skill to complete and is therefore highly prized, with some of the most historic examples on display at the Turkmen Carpet Museum in Ashgabat.
Turkmen Clothing and Jewelry
Turkmen clothing and jewelry is designed to reflect a person’s social status and region of origin, to protect from the evil eye and shield from the unforgiving climate. Even today, many people in Turkmenistan can still be seen in traditional costume, which for men includes embroidered shirts, custom shoes and sheep hats called telpek, and for women a robe and special headdress. Shades of red are especially common in Turkmenistan dress, for red is believed to have the ability to ward off evil. Jewelry is likewise valued as both an amulet and a sign of social status. It can be worn by men, women and even prized horses, and is traditionally made from silver. Turkmen jewelry often includes inserts of precious stones purported to hold magical properties and to include images of insects and animals, regarded as a link between man and nature.
Turkmen Music and Dance
The ancient roots of Turkmen music and dance is evidenced in centuries-old household items which are decorated with images of musicians and in the historic tales of skilled songwriters preserved in local folklore. Most notable among local dances is the kushtdepdi performance, endemic to the Yomut tribe of the Caspian Sea coast but now popular at national festivals around the nation. Now a UNESCO-recognized performance, kushtdepdi is carried out with precision in order to convey a special meaning. Such dances are often accompanied by traditional polyphony, ritual instruments and many types of bells. Other popular instruments today include the stringed dutar and the tuyduk, a wind instrument which is tied to shamanistic ceremonies that are reminiscent of ancient Turkmenistan religions and still performed at local celebrations.