UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kazakhstan

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UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kazakhstan

Kazakh traditional life scene

Kazakhstan boasts a rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage, with many of its traditions spanning back centuries. Rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of the steppe, Kazakh culture has been preserved through generations, with many traditions, customs, and practices thriving today. This cultural legacy, which includes ancient games, arts, and celebrations, is proudly featured in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Currently, Kazakhstan is home to 13 recognized intangible heritage sites.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kazakhstan:

  • Traditional knowledge and skills in Kazakh yurt-making (Turkic nomadic dwellings) (listed in 2014),
  • Kazakh traditional art of Dombra Kuy (listed in 2014),
  • Aitysh/Aitys, the art of improvisation (listed in 2015),
  • Nauryz, an ancient festival (listed in 2016),
  • Kuresi wrestling (listed in 2016),
  • Flatbread making and sharing culture: Katyrma (listed in 2016),
  • Kazakh traditional Assyk games (listed in 2017),
  • Traditional spring festive rites of Kazakh horse breeders (listed in 2018),
  • The heritage of Dede Qorqud/Korkyt Ata/Dede Korkut, encompassing epic culture, folk tales, and music (listed in 2018),
  • Traditional intelligence and strategy game: Togyzqumalaq, Toguz Korgool, Mangala/Göçürme (listed in 2020),
  • Falconry, a living human heritage (listed in 2021),
  • The storytelling tradition of Kozhanasyr Anecdotes (listed in 2022),
  • Orteke, a traditional Kazakh performing art: dance, puppetry, and music (listed in 2022).

Traditional Knowledge and Skills in Making Kazakh Yurts: This unique tradition, also recognized in Kyrgyzstan, involves the construction of yurts—portable nomadic dwellings that can be assembled and disassembled quickly. The origins of the yurt are debated, with estimates ranging from the 12th to 9th century B.C., though some scholars suggest an even earlier date. Today, yurts are not only used by shepherds during their seasonal migrations but are also a symbol of hospitality and Kazakh national pride, often serving tourists.

Kazakh Traditional Art of Dombra Kuy: The dombra, a two-stringed, pear-shaped instrument, is considered the soul of the Kazakh people. Its history spans more than 2,000 years, and its melodies, known as “kuy,” are part of an ancient art form. These instrumental pieces are often accompanied by historical storytelling, making the dombra central to Kazakhstan’s musical identity.

Aitysh/Aitys, the Art of Improvisation: Shared with Kyrgyzstan, Aitys is a form of oral folk art where two poets engage in an improvisational battle, accompanied by dombra music. Poets use wit, humor, and philosophical arguments to debate current issues, captivating audiences with their spontaneous verse.

Nauryz: This ancient New Year festival, celebrated in multiple countries including Iran, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, is a symbol of fertility, renewal, and human values. In preparation for Nauryz, homes are cleaned, trees and flowers are planted, and families prepare a feast featuring the traditional dish “Nauryz-kozhe,” made from seven essential ingredients.

Kuresi Wrestling: A traditional Kazakh sport, Kures is a wrestling contest in which the objective is to throw the opponent on their back. The sport has deep roots in Kazakh folklore, with legendary “baluans” (wrestlers) celebrated for their strength and bravery.

Flatbread Making and Sharing Culture: Katyrma: Katyrma, a type of flatbread, is prepared by entire families and holds a special place in all kinds of gatherings, from celebrations to memorials. The tradition of breaking katyrma by hand, without using a knife, is symbolic of unity, with blessings often shared among guests.

Kazakh Traditional Assyk Games: Dating back to the 1st millennium BC, Assyk is a traditional game played with small bones from sheep or goats. Popular across all ages, Assyk promotes camaraderie and strengthens bonds within communities.

Traditional Spring Festive Rites of Kazakh Horse Breeders: In the village of Terisakkan, in the Ulytau district of the Karaganda region, these rites celebrate the bond between humans and horses. Key rituals include “Biye bailau,” the first milking of mares, and “Kymyz muryndyk,” which marks the start of the koumiss (fermented mare’s milk) season.

Heritage of Dede Qorqud/Korkyt Ata/Dede Korkut: This epic culture, shared with Azerbaijan and Turkey, celebrates Korkyt Ata, the ninth-century inventor of the kobyz (a traditional bowed instrument) and a mythical figure in Kazakh folklore. Legends of Korkyt Ata tell of his quest for immortality, a dream realized through his music. His legacy is immortalized in festivals, institutions, and monuments across Kazakhstan.

Traditional Intelligence and Strategy Game: Togyzqumalaq: This game, played with nine pebbles, has a rich history in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey. Once played in holes dug into the ground, Togyzqumalaq is now a popular board game that hones mathematical and logical skills.

Falconry, a Living Human Heritage: With a 4,000-year history, falconry is one of Kazakhstan’s oldest traditions. The earliest rock carvings depicting this practice date back to the 1st millennium BC. It continues to be a celebrated part of Kazakh culture, with UNESCO also recognizing falconry in over a dozen other countries.

The Storytelling Tradition of Kozhanasyr Anecdotes: Shared with several Central Asian nations, these anecdotes feature the character Kozhanasyr (or Khoja Nasreddin), who uses wit and wisdom to navigate humorous situations. These tales, passed down through generations, are cherished for their timeless humor and moral lessons.

Orteke, Traditional Performing Art in Kazakhstan: Orteke is a unique puppet art in which a musician controls a wooden goat puppet (called “tauteke”) while playing the dombra. As the musician strums, the puppet “dances,” creating a lively performance that blends music, dance, and storytelling.

Visitors to Kazakhstan are almost certain to encounter elements of this UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage—whether it’s stepping into a yurt or witnessing the art of falconry firsthand.

Kazakhstan’s intangible UNESCO heritage offers immersive experiences that will enchant travelers, providing a deep connection to the country’s ancient traditions and vibrant culture.

For more insights, explore Kazakhstan’s tangible UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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