― 30 июня 2025 г.

Secretary General Raev visited historical and natural heritage sites in Mangystau

Within the framework of events to celebrate Aktau, the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World 2025, TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev visited prominent historical and cultural heritage sites in the region of Mangistau in Kazakhstan. 

During the visit, Secretary General Raev was accompanied by Mr. Nurtas Saly, the Director of Cultural Affairs of the Regional Administration of Mangystau who guided him through historical and natural heritage sites  of Kazakhstan such as the Karaman Ata Mausoleum, considered sacred by the Kazakh people, and the surrounding ancient necropolis area. 

In fact, Karaman Ata is more than just a tomb which preserves the memory of a religious leader; it is also a symbolic centre which reflects the identity, beliefs and cultural memory of Turkic tribes that have lived in these lands for centuries. The tamgas (tribal symbols) on the gravestones in the area were particularly noteworthy. These symbols, linked to Oghuz and Kipchak traditions, are considered as  important items of cultural heritage which bear witness of  the social structure, ethnic identity, and belief systems of the tribes which lived in the region throughout history. Secretary General Sultan Raev who noted that such symbols reflect the common historical roots of Turkic peoples aslo stressed the shared responsibility concerning the preservation and promotion of this heritage. 

Another site Secretary General Raev was taken to during his visit was the Ibıktı Canyon, a natural wonder of Mangystau recognised as one of the region's most striking natural heritage sites due to its rocky formations and stunning geological structure. Secretary-General Raev who explored the canyon with great interest  also shared some assessments regarding its promotion and ecotourism potential with local authorities. 

The region of Mangystau holds a significant place in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Turkic World not only for its historical structures but also for its sacred sites such as Şakpak Ata, Beket Ata, and Karaman Ata, rock-carved mosques, and unique natural formations. 

At the end of the visit, the delegation of TURKSOY announced that concrete steps will be taken to ensure the  international promotion of the site as well as the preservation and transmission of the region's cultural values to younger generations within the framework of events to be carried out in the Cultural Capital of the  Turkic World 2025.