UCA Hosts Public Lecture on Ancient Monuments of Kyrgyzstan
The University of Central Asia (UCA) hosted a public lecture in Naryn highlighting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region and of Kyrgyzstan more broadly, underscoring the University’s longstanding commitment to preserving and promoting this legacy. The lecture was delivered by one of the country’s leading archaeologists, Professor Kubatbek Taabaldiev, who presented findings from his extensive research in Naryn, including studies conducted on the grounds of UCA’s Naryn Campus with the University’s support. His work emphasised the importance of archaeological discoveries for safeguarding traditional heritage and strengthening cultural identity.
The event, held in Naryn, was organised with the support of local authorities and was attended by the Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in Naryn Province, Ms Aidana Imanalieva, who delivered welcome remarks.
“The preservation of cultural and archaeological heritage is a priority for our region. We welcome UCA’s initiatives and the valuable contributions of scholars like Professor Taabaldiev, whose work brings global attention to the historical richness of Naryn,” noted Ms Imanalieva.
The lecture brought together a diverse audience, including academics, researchers, historians, museum specialists, and educators from universities and schools. Students from UCA and Naryn State University actively engaged in lively discussions with Professor Taabaldiev, reflecting strong interest in the region’s cultural past and the relevance of archaeological research for today’s generations.
Professor Taabaldiev is a distinguished archaeologist whose extensive work across the Inner Tien Shan has uncovered significant sites dating back to the Stone and Bronze Ages. For more than a decade, he has collaborated with UCA on various research initiatives, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region’s early history and cultural development. UCA is proud to have supported his research and to have facilitated the publication of his recent book, Ancient Monuments of Tenir-Too, which makes an important contribution to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Naryn and the wider Kyrgyz Republic.
In recent years, UCA has consistently advanced the preservation and celebration of Kyrgyz cultural heritage through a series of high-impact academic, educational, and community initiatives. These include a week-long programme marking the 95th anniversary of the legendary writer Chyngyz Aitmatov, featuring book clubs, film discussions, and the opening of a dedicated Aitmatov Corner at the UCA Campus Library in Naryn; the “Timeless Textiles: Kurak – Piecing Together Women’s Stories” exhibition at the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts in Bishkek, showcasing traditional Kyrgyz textile arts and women’s cultural narratives; and the annual Nomad Festival in Naryn, which highlights the region’s rich nomadic traditions through performances, crafts, and community engagement.
