The city of Anau is the cultural capital of the Turkic world.
The proclamation of the city of Anau, where numerous pieces of evidence have been found proving that the Turkmen people have a very ancient and rich historical and cultural heritage, as the "Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" has become a source of pride for our entire nation. Support for Turkmenistan's proposal in this regard is recognition of our country's most reliable cooperation in strengthening the unity and solidarity of neighboring and fraternal peoples who share a common history and roots. The city of Anau is not only a glorious part of Turkmen history, but also has special significance for the entire Turkic world. Anau is an amazing place where every stone tells its own story. Ancient settlements have turned this city into a real historical monument, testifying to the flourishing culture and craftsmanship of its ancient inhabitants. Today, Anau is not only a city looking back on its past, but also a rapidly growing and prosperous one. Modern residential buildings, schools, kindergartens, and sports schools all ensure a comfortable life for the city's residents and the comprehensive development of the younger generation. In 2017, the city became particularly attractive with the appearance of the White House. Now, concerts and festivals are held in the open air in Anau, creating a unique atmosphere. In 2024, Anev was chosen as the cultural capital of the Turkic world. Festivals, exhibitions, concerts—all of this is dedicated to showcasing the cultural heritage and modern achievements of Anev. But what is history without care? The Ak-Bugday Museum preserves the rich heritage of Anev's "ak-bugday," serving as a home for ancient artifacts and discoveries. For more than 7,000 years, the history of this city has been woven with mystery and inspiration. In 1904, American archaeologist Raphael Pomelli discovered the ancient settlements of Anev in the southern deserts of Turkmenistan, opening the door to the world of ancient culture. Raphael Pomelli's discovery of Ak-Bugday in the 19th century was the first evidence of wheat cultivation and baking in human history. The city of Anev is the administrative center of the Ahal velayat of Turkmenistan, located 8 kilometers east of the capital Ashgabat. Archaeological data indicate that the city of Anev originated in the Eneolithic period, in the 4th-3rd millennia BC. In 2005, the Ak Bugday National Museum was founded in Anau, where numerous ancient finds are kept. It is worth noting that in 2023, the city of Shusha in Azerbaijan became the cultural capital of the Turkic world. Before Anau, the city of Mary among the cities of Turkmenistan received the status of the cultural capital of the Turkic world in 2015. May the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag, and our esteemed President, Hero Serdar Arkadagly, who have created all the conditions for us to live happily in this wonderful era, be healthy and live long, and may their state affairs always be successful!