UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Turkmenistan’s membership in UNESCO began in 1993, followed by the establishment of its National Commission for UNESCO in 1997. In 2022, the country celebrated the inauguration of its first UNESCO Club, named «Languages of the World,» in Ashgabat. Since then, Turkmenistan has actively engaged with the United Nations on a variety of scientific, educational, and historical initiatives.

Five sites from Turkmenistan have been inscribed on the World Heritage List:

1. The State Historical and Cultural Park «Ancient Merv» (inscribed in 1999);
2. Ancient City of Kunya-Urgench (inscribed in 2005);
3. Parthian Fortresses of Nisa (inscribed in 2007);
4. Turanian Deserts in the Temperate Region (included in 2023);
5. Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor (since 2023).

Merv, recognized as one of the oldest cities in both Turkmenistan and Central Asia, dates back to the 3rd millennium BC. The city was once a thriving agricultural center, with a population reaching up to half a million during the Middle Ages, surpassing even Constantinople and Baghdad at its height. Despite its destruction in the 19th century, the park now preserves the remnants of this historic city. Key attractions include the partially ruined sites of Erk-Kala, Sultan-Kala, Gyaur-Kala, Bayramalihan-Kala, and Abdullakhan-Kala, as well as ancient mausoleums, citadels, and mosques. Noteworthy is the mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, built in the early 12th century. This structure survived the Mongol invasions and is renowned for its exquisite mural paintings, detailed stucco work, and unique masonry, making it one of the most impressive architectural feats of its era.

Kunya-Urgench, mentioned in historical texts as early as the 3rd century BC and referenced in the Zoroastrian «Avesta» as Urva, showcases a blend of architectural styles from the 11th to 16th centuries, with some structures dating back to pre-Islamic times. The city’s significant landmarks include the remains of the ancient caravanserai gate, the tallest minaret in Central Asia (Kutlug Timur), the mausoleum of Tyurabek Khanim, the Kyrk-Molla fortress, and various medieval mausoleums, each reflecting the rich diversity of Muslim architectural heritage. Kunya-Urgench was once the site of the prestigious Academy of Mamun, where prominent scholars such as Beruni and Ibn Sina (Avicenna) conducted groundbreaking research. The city also hosted an early 14th-century hospital and was a central hub of Islamic scholarship during the early 13th century.

This World Heritage site includes the fortresses of Old and New Nisa, which were the capitals of the Parthian Empire for five centuries. The Parthian Empire was a major power in its time, rivaling Rome, and its influence extended to Alexandropolis, founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. Nisa’s strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes has led to the discovery of numerous state and religious structures, as well as artifacts that highlight the cultural exchange between Central Asia and the Mediterranean. Ongoing archaeological work continues to reveal evidence of settlements dating back to the 4th millennium BC, with much still to be uncovered.

Spanning Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, the Turanian Deserts are noted for their extreme climate, featuring scorching hot summers and freezing winters. Despite these harsh conditions, the deserts support a rich array of flora and fauna, with species uniquely adapted to survive in this challenging environment.

This corridor, a crucial part of the Great Silk Road, was located in the heart of Central Asia and served as a key trade route connecting modern-day Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. For 18 centuries, the corridor facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations, contributing significantly to the advancement of science and technology across regions.

Discover more about Turkmenistan’s intangible UNESCO World Heritage Sites.