In this episode of Modern Nomads, we travel to Kazakhstan's Almaty region to discover the rich history and innovative transformations of the yurt, a symbol of nomadic resilience and adaptability.
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00:00The Kazakhs, whose name means free, forged a unique identity in the vast open steppe
00:08during the 15th and 16th centuries, a legacy deeply rooted in nomadic traditions.
00:14The yurt, a symbol of this heritage, has evolved alongside them, still cherished today, though
00:20often adapted to be used in a modern setting.
00:29In the Almaty region, located about 1,000 km south of the capital Astana, the distinctive
00:34shapes of yurts often appear on the landscape.
00:38Yurts – portable and eco-friendly circular dwellings used for centuries by nomads on
00:42the steppes – have been adapted for modern uses, such as accommodations or restaurants.
00:48Over time, the yurt, recognized on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, has evolved
00:53into a sophisticated and versatile shelter.
00:56At this ethno-village, we spoke to architect Ravil Nurgisa, who won a prestigious architecture
01:01award for his ultra-modern version of a yurt, recognized for its innovative approach and
01:06cultural significance.
01:07To attract younger generations, he reimagined the yurt with a 25-square-meter layout, featuring
01:13transformable furniture, centralized facilities and sliding walls.
01:18One of the main features is its sustainability, following principles that honor both traditional
01:24and environmental responsibility.
01:26We put a photoelectric panel on the top of the yurt, where we take the energy of the
01:33sun and use it for washing and drying machines.
01:38Even if there is a small amount of heat in the house, it can be used.
01:43The energy taken from the yurt is used in my kitchen, as well as in the gas tank.
01:53Interest in modern yurts has grown worldwide, with Ravil receiving inquiries from across
01:58the globe.
02:02To understand the yurt's significance to Kazakhs, we must explore its traditional role
02:07in supporting their nomadic lifestyle for centuries.
02:11Yurts dating back 3,000 years in Central Asia feature a wooden frame covered with felt or
02:16canvas, making them easy to assemble, disassemble and transport.
02:20Herders and shepherds still use them in mountain pastures.
02:26We are on Almaty's mountains.
02:28Here it's common to see traditional yurts, often used for glamping, but still keeping
02:32their original form.
02:34The yurt's circular design is supposed to prevent negative energy buildup, ensuring
02:39continuous energy flow and promoting harmony.
02:42Its decoration is equally important.
02:45Kazakh yurts, more ornate than Mongolian and Kyrgyz ones, feature vibrant patterns,
02:50felt carpets, colored rugs and wooden furniture, embodying the rich heritage and artistry.
02:56Just like the shapan, the traditional garment Tlek offered me, to make me feel like a true
03:01Kazakh.
03:02When you stay in a yurt, you may experience a unique sense of rest and relaxation, helping
03:21relieve stress and inner tension.
03:23Is this a couch?
03:26Bed?
03:28Ok.
03:32Oh, this is really comfortable.
03:40It's true that within this cocoon we can feel the culture and spirit of the Kazakh people.
03:46I've traveled across the country to the capital Astana to learn more about an essential aspect
03:51of this Kazakh symbol's interior decoration, the rugs.
03:54At the She-Rug exhibition, which explores the untold stories of the steps through carpets
03:59and contemporary tapestries, I learned more about the significance of this art form.
04:04These hand-woven masterpieces, passed down through generations, adorn the yurts as decoration,
04:10insulation and a reflection of the owner's identity through specific patterns.
04:15It's most importantly identity card.
04:18Therefore, Kazakh rugs include the ornaments which would portray the family and its heritage,
04:26its history.
04:27It's like a non-verbal communication.
04:29Indeed, a nomad entering a yurt could immediately identify its owner.
04:33The rugs often depict livestock, highlighting its significance as the primary source of
04:38wealth for nomads.
04:40Our journey through time wraps up here.
04:43We have uncovered the story of yurts and seen how these structures, once essential
04:47for nomadic life, still embody the Kazakh spirit of versatility and serve as a lasting
04:53link between the past and the present.