How did Turkmenistan get its name?
Turkmenistan derives its name from its Turkmen ethnic majority, who make up the majority of the country's population. The name "Turkmen" refers to a Turkic ethnic group that has a long history in the region.
The term "Turkmen" translates to "Turk-like" or "resembling the Turks." The Turkmen people are descendants of the Oghuz Turks, a major Turkic group that originated in Central Asia and later migrated to various parts of the region, including what is now Turkmenistan.
Where is Turkmenistan located?
Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia. It is bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and east, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west.
Turkmenistan is a country with diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and the vast Karakum Desert, which occupies a significant portion of its territory is one of the largest sand deserts in the world.
The desert is known for its massive sand dunes, rugged landscapes, and extreme temperatures, making it an intriguing destination for adventurous travelers.
The capital city of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, is known for its opulent architecture. The city holds the Guinness World Record for having the most buildings made of white marble. The extravagant use of marble gives the city a distinct and stunning appearance.
A Brief History of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan has a diverse and ancient history. In ancient times, the region witnessed the rise and fall of various empires. This included the Achaemenid and Sassanian Persian dynasties.
Nomadic tribes, particularly the Oghuz Turks, settled in the area during the medieval period and played a crucial role in shaping its culture.
In the late 19th century, Turkmenistan fell under Russian control as part of the expanding Russian Empire. It later became a Soviet Socialist Republic in 1924 and underwent rapid industrialization during the Soviet era.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Turkmenistan declared independence. It experienced an autocratic rule under Saparmurat Niyazov and later Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, with the country's vast natural gas reserves serving as a significant economic driver.
Turkmenistan is home to the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, often referred to as the "Door to Hell." This large crater has been burning continuously since 1971 when it was accidentally set on fire during a drilling operation. The fiery pit has become a popular tourist attraction.
Turkmenistan adopted a policy of permanent neutrality in 1995, aiming to avoid involvement in international conflicts and maintain peaceful relations with other countries. The country's neutrality is enshrined in its constitution, and it has hosted several international conferences promoting peace and cooperation. Despite this, they do suffer from accusations of human right abuses.
Throughout its history, Turkmenistan has maintained a unique cultural identity shaped by its Turkic heritage and regional influences.
Turkmenistan Culture
Turkmenistan boasts a vibrant and distinct culture that reflects the rich heritage of its people.
Traditional Nomadic Heritage is deeply ingrained in the culture. Historically, Turkmen tribes were nomadic and engaged in animal husbandry, particularly with horses, sheep, and camels.
The traditional yurt, a portable and sturdy tent made of felt, remains an iconic symbol of nomadic life and is still used for various purposes, including ceremonies and celebrations. In fact, they hold the Guinness world record for the largest yurt ever built in 2015,302 a whopping 33 meters in diameter.
Turkmenistan is renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, particularly in the realm of textiles. Skilled Turkmen artisans create intricate carpets, rugs, and textiles using traditional techniques and motifs.
These textiles often feature geometric patterns and symbolic designs, representing elements of nature, animals, and ancestral beliefs. Turkmen carpets, with their vibrant colors and meticulous craftsmanship, are considered some of the finest in the world.
Music and dance play a vital role in Turkmen culture. Traditional Turkmen music incorporates various instruments such as the dutar (a two-stringed lute), dap (a frame drum), and gopuz (a plucked string instrument).
Music and dance are central to celebrations and social gatherings, showcasing the unique rhythms, melodies, and expressive movements of Turkmen traditions.
Folklore, including oral storytelling and epic poems, has been passed down through generations, preserving the history, legends, and values of the Turkmen people.
Turkmen people are known for their warm hospitality and respect for guests. Traditional Turkmen hospitality involves offering tea, known as "ak göz süýji," to visitors as a gesture of welcome and friendship.
Tea is an integral part of Turkmen culture and is often served with sweets, snacks, and conversations. Sharing tea signifies a sense of community, and it is a symbol of generosity and friendship.
Horses hold a special place in Turkmen culture, symbolizing strength, freedom, and independence. Horseback riding and equestrian skills are deeply rooted in Turkmen traditions.
The Akhal-Teke horse, native to Turkmenistan, is a revered breed known for its speed, endurance, and distinctive metallic sheen.
Equestrian sports, such as horse racing and horseback archery, are celebrated events and reflect the enduring equestrian heritage of the Turkmen people.
The predominant religion is Islam, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims. There is a small minority of Shia Muslims as well. Islam plays a significant role in the culture and traditions of the country, although the government maintains a secular stance and regulates religious practices.
The official language is Turkmen which belongs to the Turkic language family and is written in the Latin alphabet. Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among the older population, due to the country’s historical ties with Soviet Union.
Turkmenistan Cuisine
Turkmenistan's cuisine is a delightful fusion of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Turkic culinary influences. The country's traditional dishes reflect the nomadic heritage and the use of locally available ingredients. Here are a few highlights of Turkmenistan's cuisine:
Meat holds a prominent place in Turkmen cuisine, particularly lamb and mutton. Popular meat dishes include shashlyk (grilled skewered meat), Ichlekli (a meat pie considered to be the national dish) palaw (rice cooked with meat and vegetables), and plov (a pilaf dish with rice, meat, and aromatic spices). These hearty and flavorful meat-based dishes are often accompanied by bread, yogurt, and fresh herbs.
Dairy products are essential components of Turkmen cuisine. Kumis, a fermented horse milk beverage, is a traditional drink enjoyed by the Turkmen people. Yogurt and sour cream are commonly used in various dishes and sauces. Ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based beverage, is a popular choice to quench thirst in Turkmenistan's hot climate.
Bread holds cultural significance in Turkmenistan. Traditional Turkmen bread, called "çörek," is typically baked in large, round flat loaves with decorative patterns. It is a staple food and often served with meals, used for dipping, or as a wrap for kebabs and other fillings.
Bread-making is considered an art, and baking bread is a communal activity that is deeply ingrained in Turkmen culture.
Soups and stews, such as shurpa and chorba, are commonly enjoyed in Turkmenistan. Shurpa is a hearty meat and vegetable soup, often made with lamb, while chorba is a spiced soup that can feature various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and legumes.
These soups provide nourishment and comfort, especially during colder months.
Turkmenistan offers a range of delightful sweets and pastries. One popular treat is chak-chak, a sweet pastry made from fried dough strands coated in honey. Halva, a dense and sweet confection made from ground sesame seeds or flour, is another well-loved dessert. Other sweet treats include baursak (fried dough balls) and various nut-filled pastries.
Turkmen cuisine reflects the country's cultural diversity and the availability of local ingredients. It combines hearty flavors, robust meats, dairy products, and aromatic spices to create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and comforting.
The cuisine of Turkmenistan represents a delicious blend of traditional recipes passed down through generations, offering a taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.
So Let’s. Enjoy a Turkmenistan Meal
The Menu
First Course
Fried Eggplant Salad (gowrulan badamjanly Salat)
Main Course
Ichlekli (Meat Pie) National Dish of Turkmenistan
Dessert
Chak-Chak (Honey Cake)
We set the scene with the colors of the Turkmenistan flag Green, Red and White. The color green is symbolic of the earth, green pastures and peace. A white star to represent the five stars on their flag, one for each province.
We added a rose which represents the national flower and some wheat which is a staple food and cotton which they call “White gold” are important crops for the nation. A tea pot as tea is important culturally as well.
The first course was a wonderful fried eggplant salad. Every time I make eggplant I wonder why I don’t cook it more often. This was a lovely little salad with fresh herbs, and simply dressed with lemon juice and garlic.
Next was Ichlekli, a thin meat pie that was also a tasty dish. It is minced meat I made with lamb but beef could also be used. It also has onions and tomato and bell peppers adding nice flavor to the dish.
For dessert, we had chak-chak, they call it a honey cake but it is small pieces of fried dough smothered in a sweet honey glaze. It is a heavenly bite which we thoroughly enjoyed with a cup of tea.
As we say goodbye to this interesting country of Turkmenistan, I leave you with a few of their famous quotes that capture the essence of Turkmen values.
“A person without a homeland is like a bird without a nest.”
“Friendship is the foundation of all happiness.”
“The land is our mother, and we must cherish it.”
Until next time,
Warmest regards,
Darlene
