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UCA Contributes to Preservation of Ancient Heritage Site in Kyrgyzstan
A comprehensive plan to protect the Batken petroglyphs, recently discovered rock carvings on Kara-Egize mountain in Kyrgyzstan, was the culmination of a roundtable meeting hosted by the University of Central Asia’s Cultural Heritage and Humanities Unit. The event brought together international researchers, local authorities, and cultural heritage experts to discuss strategies for safeguarding these significant historical findings.
Batken researchers conducted a comprehensive survey, identifying a remarkable array of petroglyphs. The count revealed over 700 depictions of mountain goats, horses, camels, deer, eagles, riders, and more. An additional 200 images have been identified for further research.
Recognising the historical and cultural importance of the petroglyphs, participants stressed the urgency of their preservation. The proposed strategies include designating the petroglyphs as a national monument and exploring the experiences of neighbouring countries with similar cultural heritage sites. The newly formulated plan will serve as a guide for collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, researchers, local communities, and the international community, to ensure the long-term preservation of the petroglyphs.
"Preserving the monument is crucial, but at the same time, it is important to raise awareness among local communities to ensure their understanding of the historical significance of these monuments. Equally vital is the promotion of cultural tourism, which will bring income for the local residents, motivating them to prioritise the safety and preservation of this invaluable heritage," emphasised Altyn Kapalova, Research Fellow at the University of Central Asia's Cultural Heritage and Humanities Unit.
