Ashgabat Museums

In the heart of Ashgabat, the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan stands as the nation’s premier museum. Established in 1998, this expansive institution showcases an impressive collection of over 166,000 exhibits across seven thematic galleries. The museum’s extensive collection spans diverse fields including natural history, science, and the history of Turkmenistan’s presidency. Among its treasures are artifacts dating back to the 6th-2nd millennia BC. The museum is a multifaceted complex featuring several specialized sections: the Museum of the President of Turkmenistan, the Museum of Ethnography and Local History, the Museum of Independence, the Museum of Neutrality, and the Museum of the Constitution. Additionally, it encompasses three branches within Ashgabat—»Galkynysh,» «Garashsyzlyk,» and «Bitaraplyk»—each offering a unique perspective on Turkmen culture and history.

The Turkmen Carpet Museum, founded in 1993, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of Turkmen carpet weaving. Home to over 2,000 handcrafted carpets, the museum presents both ancient and contemporary pieces. Noteworthy among its exhibits is a 301-square-meter carpet that has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest handmade carpet in the world.

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museum of Fine Arts, which features eleven halls filled with an array of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and precious metal artifacts. The museum’s collection highlights works by Western European artists from the 14th to 20th centuries, as well as Russian painters from the 18th to 20th centuries, offering a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Just outside Ashgabat, the National Museum of Wildlife of Turkmenistan provides a unique experience with its modern zoo spanning 40 hectares. The zoo houses a diverse range of species, including animals, birds, insects, reptiles, and fish, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with Turkmenistan’s rich biodiversity.

The National Museum «Ak Bugday,» or Museum of White Wheat, located in the suburbs of Ashgabat, is a distinctive institution. Founded in 1904 on the site where ancient wheat grains from the 3rd century were discovered, the museum features exhibits such as millstones from the same period, tools from the 3rd-2nd millennia BC, and ancient ceramic dishes, highlighting the significance of wheat in Turkmen history.

Finally, the «Sanctity of the Motherland» museum, situated within the National Memory memorial complex, offers a poignant exploration of Turkmenistan’s wartime and mid-20th-century history. Its exhibits include artifacts from World War II and the devastating earthquake of the mid-20th century, serving as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and historical experiences.